As the Los Angeles Clippers look ahead to their second season at the Intuit Dome, the front office is moving toward continuity in some areas and uncertainty in others.
According to HoopsHype insider Michael Scotto, 36-year-old forward Nicolas Batum is expected to return for the 2025–26 campaign.
Batum holds a $4.9 million player option and is widely anticipated to opt in after playing 78 games last season and contributing in the playoffs.
He provided valuable depth with his defense, shooting 43.3 percent from three during the regular season, and saw increased usage in the postseason.
While Batum’s return seems likely, Ben Simmons’ future with the Clippers is still unresolved.
Scotto reported that the team is unsure about Simmons’ status despite his brief stint with the franchise after being bought out by the Brooklyn Nets in February.
Simmons played 17 regular-season games for the Clippers, averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes per game.
He saw limited action in the playoffs, appearing in five contests and logging just 8.4 minutes per game.
Simmons signed a one-year deal worth $1.08 million with Los Angeles, and there has been no confirmation from the team about a potential extension or new deal.
The Clippers also face decisions on other rotational players, including Amir Coffey, who enters free agency with an uncertain market.
Additionally, backup center Drew Eubanks is not expected to return, per Scotto, and could be waived or included in a trade.
Eubanks’ $4.75 million contract for 2025–26 is non-guaranteed, making him a potential salary filler as the Clippers explore offseason moves.
The franchise recently concluded a 50-win season, finishing fifth in the Western Conference standings before a first-round playoff exit.
