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It was generally assumed that the Clippers planned to go after Kobe Bryant, and if they failed, they would simply re-sign Quentin Richardson. As a restricted free agent, the Clippers could match any deal for Richardson, including the $45 million offer sheet he agreed to with the Phoenix Suns.However, the Los Angeles Times reports that the Clippers might not match Richardson. And LAist cannot possibly understand why.
Call us crazy, but LAist has always thought highly of Quentin Richardson, who had a breakout season this past year, averaging better than 17 points a game. Sure, Richardson doesn't want to remain a Clipper, but neither did Elton Brand and Corey Maggette, and the Clips matched them anyways. We're a little amused that Donald Sterling can only keep players nowadays thanks to restricted free agency and contract offer sheets from other teams, but heck, it's better than losing all your stars for nothing.
If the Clippers fail to sign Kobe, and do not match Richardson, then we can only assume that Donald Sterling is being cheap once again. And hey, Donald, once you match Richardson, it might help to bring in a point guard whose over 18 and doesn't think he's a 2. Stay on Q, Donald.
