Before meeting with DeAndre Jordan, the Clippers were reportedly confident they’d re-sign him despite his pledge to the Mavericks.
After meeting with him, they reportedly remain so.
Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports:Los Angeles Clippers ownership, management and players descended upon Houston on Wednesday and believe they’re on the cusp of persuading free-agent center DeAndre Jordan to forgo a verbal commitment to the Dallas Mavericks and return to the Clippers, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
Nevertheless, the Cllppers doubt their ability to keep Jordan away from Dallas owner Mark Cuban between Wednesday afternoon and midnight ET when NBA rules allow for Jordan to sign a binding NBA contract and fear Cuban could still sway Jordan back to the Mavericks in the 11th hour, league sources said.
The Clippers probably can’t keep Jordan from Cuban for the next few hours, but that doesn’t meant they won’t try.
And of course, this could drag longer than early Thursday morning. That’s just when Jordan can first officially sign. He could take his time and make sure he’s making the right decision.
But considering these talks are even happening, that’s a strong sign Jordan will return to the Clippers. The Clippers’ continued confidence is yet another signal they’ll lock him up.