Our exit interview series at 213 Hoops continues with a look at the 2022 season of one of the Clippers’ trade-deadline-acquisitions, Robert Covington.
BASIC INFORMATION
Height: 6’7”
Weight: 209lb
Position: Power Forward/ Center
Age: 31
Years in the NBA: 8
Key Stats: In 23 games with the Clippers, Covington averaged 10.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.2 steals in 22 minutes per game on 50 / 44.9 / 84.8 shooting splits.
EXPECTATIONS
When Robert Covington came to the Clippers by trade, he was very much the “sweetener”—not the focus of the trade, who was Norm Powell, but a nice piece nonetheless. He was having a rough year in Portland, so we did not know what to expect exactly. Lucas put it well at the time, saying “[t]he addition of Robert Covington sneakily gives LAC another small ball option and battle-tested forward.” Overall, though, we here at 213Hoops thought Covington would be a nice piece, who could be let go or traded, if he was in fact washed up as a player.
REALITY
While Powell was the celebrated addition from that trade with the Trailblazer, Robert Covington would end up having the bigger impact on the Clippers’ 2022 season, as Powell was quickly sidelined with a foot injury. Covington instantly looked energized by his new situation—he was all over the place on defense and was a willing and able shooter on offense. He had the best net rating on the team and generally fortified the Clippers rotation with his versatility. RoCo swiftly became a fan favorite for his play on the court and positive demeanor (as well as community service).
FUTURE WITH CLIPPERS
As he said it himself, “We back.” A few weeks ago, the Clippers brought Covington back on a two-year, $24 million extension. This Clippers’ roster—Robert included—is aging and getting older, so it made sense for the Clippers to lockdown a guy who can contribute in the short term. Likewise, with the Clippers, Covington can expect a steady role and a chance to compete at a very high level. I am sure both sides are expecting great things in these next two years and are not worried about the future beyond that.
