Western Conference Preview: Pacific Division

This is the second installment of my six part NBA season preview. For the Southwest Division preview, click here.

Los Angeles Clippers
What's New: The Clippers acquired two former Georgia Bulldogs in this past June's draft. PF Trey Tompkins isn't overly athletic like teammates Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, but possesses a solid jump shot, and is physical in the post on both sides of the ball. G Travis Leslie is an explosive shooting guard, and has a ridiculous 6'11" wingspan despite standing 6'4". His jumpshot is inconsistent, but should be able to attack the basket and be lethal on the fast break. He reminds me some of Russell Westbrook, in that he's also a very good rebounder for a guard (7.2 per game last season).
Biggest Concern: C DeAndre Jordan is a restricted free agent, and while the Clippers have indicated that they'll match any offer he might get, never underestimate the tight wallet of owner Donald Sterling.
Outlook: I do expect the Clippers to match an offer for DeAndre Jordan, but if the offer is deemed "too big", don't be surprised to hear about Donald Sterling contemplating using the amnesty clause. The most likely casualty of that may be Mo Williams, who will make $8.5 million this year, and has an $8.5 million player option for 2012. With Jordan there to play alongside fellow dynamic youngsters SG Eric Gordon and PF Blake Griffin (and don't forget about Chris Kaman), this team should be contending for a playoff spot.