Nicolas Batum extends with Clippers for two years: French experience valued

Nicolas Batum continues his California adventure. After declining his player option worth $4.9 million, the 36-year-old French forward has finally reached an agreement with the Los Angeles Clippers for two additional seasons, according to information reported by Shams Charania.

Free agent forward Nicolas Batum intends to sign a two-year, $11.5 million deal to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN. Deal includes a team option as well as a trade kicker. Batum’s agent, Bouna Ndiaye of Comsport, negotiated the contract for the reunion. pic.twitter.com/ocreAUZeFP

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025

The total contract amount is $11.5 million, with $5.6 million for the first year and $5.9 million for the 2026-2027 season. The second year is structured as a team option, giving the Clippers the ability to decide on the Frenchman’s future until 2027. The deal also includes a « trade kicker, » guaranteeing Batum a financial bonus in case of a trade.

A crucial defensive role despite modest statistics

Despite limited offensive statistics last season (4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 78 games), Nicolas Batum remains an essential element in Tyronn Lue’s rotation. His defensive impact and basketball IQ are universally recognized in the NBA, particularly during playoffs where his playing time increased dramatically.

During the series against the Denver Nuggets, the French veteran saw his playing time increase to 24 minutes on average, demonstrating his importance in crucial moments. His ability to provide defense, three-point shooting (43% success rate) and team cohesion makes him a valuable player for the Clippers’ ambitions.

PLAYER PROFILE

Nicolas BATUM

Position(s):Small Forward / Power Forward

Height:203 cm

Age:36 years (14/12/1988)

Nationality:

Stats 2024-2025 / NBA

PTS

4.1

#416

REB

2.9

#321

AST

1.2

#337

Olympic silver medalist with the French national team at the 2024 Paris Games, his last international campaign, Batum has been playing in the NBA since 2008. After stints with Portland and Charlotte before joining the Clippers in 2020, he had a brief stint in Philadelphia during the 2023-2024 season before returning to Los Angeles last summer.

This extension aligns with the Clippers’ strategy, who will also extend James Harden for $81.5 million over two years. At 36, the product of Normandy and Le Mans youth academies proves he still has the resources to contribute at the highest level.

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