NBA Rumors: Clippers Last Roster Spot Could Go To Joakim Noah

Joakim Noah is still a free agent, but his fortunes could change soon. The Los Angeles Clippers have an open roster spot and there is word that he is the leading candidate to get that spot. He would be a perfect fit for head coach Doc Rivers, a big man who does not mind doing the dirty work.

But before that, it seems the Clippers are performing due diligence by making sure that Noah is completely healthy. Los Angeles reportedly kept its eye on the veteran forward but were a bit wary since he was rehabbing from an Achilles injury, ESPN reported via Fansided. It appears that much of that has been cleared up and a deal could be finalized soon.

The middle has been a major concern for the Clippers with Montrezl Harrell filling up the void. The Clips did add Marcus Morris recently but the 30-year-old is better known as a power forward. Adding 6-foot-11 Noah adds more ceiling to Rivers' charges, not to mention a veteran who knows how to mix it up and energize his team through hustle plays and defense.

Last NBA season, Noah suited up with the Memphis Grizzlies and had his best performance since leaving the Chicago Bulls. He played in 42 games averaging 7.1 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists per Basketball-Reference.com. He owns career averages of 8.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. And while his numbers may not be that impressive, it is the little things that he brings that makes him a valuable player to have.

Also worth noting is that Noah did not give up despite attending several workouts and failing to make the grade. In a previous post, he put up an Instagram post that he is back on track and that his goal was to get back on the basketball court and compete. If he comes to terms with the Clips, his patience will pay off soon.

The Clippers are currently at the third spot in the NBA Western Conference tied with the Denver Nuggets with similar 40-19 win-loss cards. They are currently on a three-game winning streak and want to cement their hold at that position. If they get Noah, their chance of winning the NBA title may have just gotten a big boost.