The Los Angeles Clippers enter the 2026-27 NBA season with high hopes for their rookie trio: Keaton Wagler, Baba Miller, and Nick Martinelli. After a disappointing end to the 2025-26 campaign-losing their last two games and falling to the Denver Nuggets 120-101 on May 3-the Clippers are looking to their young talent to inject new energy into the lineup. Each rookie showed promise during Summer League, and fans are eager to see how they’ll perform under head coach Tyronn Lue.
What can Keaton Wagler bring to the Clippers?
Wagler, a versatile forward drafted in the first round, impressed scouts with his two-way play. At 6'8" with a 7'2" wingspan, he has the potential to be a defensive anchor while contributing offensively. His ability to shoot from the perimeter (42% from three in Summer League) makes him a valuable stretch-four option. If he can maintain his defensive intensity and improve his playmaking, Wagler could become a key rotational piece for the Clippers.
How will Baba Miller impact the rotation?
Miller, a dynamic guard with explosive athleticism, is expected to provide a spark off the bench. His quickness and ability to finish at the rim (58% FG in Summer League) make him a threat in transition. The Clippers need more scoring depth, and Miller’s aggressive style could help fill that void. However, he’ll need to tighten his handle and improve his decision-making to earn consistent minutes.
What role will Nick Martinelli play?
Martinelli, a skilled big man with a polished post game, is likely to see limited minutes initially. His 6'11" frame and soft touch around the basket (18 points per game in Summer League) suggest he could develop into a reliable low-post scorer. With the Clippers’ frontcourt depth, Martinelli’s role may be situational, but his potential as a stretch-five could make him a valuable asset in the long run.
What’s next for the Clippers’ rookies?
As the Clippers prepare for the 2026-27 season, their rookies will have the opportunity to prove themselves in preseason games. With a 2W-0D-3L record in their last five games, the team is looking to rebuild momentum. Wagler, Miller, and Martinelli will need to adapt quickly to the NBA’s pace and physicality. If they can contribute early, they could play a significant role in helping the Clippers return to playoff contention. For more on their schedule, check the [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
