Philadelphia 76ers: 5 teams who pose biggest threat in free agency

5. Los Angeles Clippers

The Mavericks, Heat, Pacers and, to a lesser extent, Jazz all deserve a mention here. But the Clippers get the nod due to a flexible cap situation and an attractive location, not to mention the strong culture under Steve Ballmer and Doc Rivers.

While the Clips don’t receive the same media attention as the Lakers, Los Angeles is an attractive place to play. There’s also a decent chance Kawhi Leonard ends up signing, which could make the situation even more intriguing for someone of Jimmy Butler’s ilk.

There’s no guarantee LAC even considers an offer for Butler. Kawhi, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson — while not all feasible options — will likely top the Clippers’ to-do list. If things go south and Butler is on the market, though, the Clippers can make a compelling offer.

If the Clippers miss on Kawhi, Butler can be the man. He might want that role. He’d also be on a tough, defensive-minded group playing for a well-respected coach. The Clippers have built the kind of team that fits Butler’s unique personality.

If the Clippers sign Kawhi, there’s still enough room to throw a four-year max at Butler. If Butler wants to contend and doesn’t view Philadelphia as a desirable place to contend, LAC with Kawhi makes a great deal of sense. The Clippers are a smart, enticing organization. Can’t count them out.