Reports: Nicolas Batum is returning to the Los Angeles Clippers

Nicolas Batum is returning to the Los Angeles Clippers, as the team has signed him along with forward Derrick Jones Jr. and guard Kevin Porter Jr. on Wednesday.

Batum played 60 games last season split between the Clippers and the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. He was involved in the trade that brought James Harden to the Clippers.

Harden, who was a free agent, signed a two-year deal with a player option. The Clippers officially confirmed on Wednesday that he would remain with the team.

Batum, a 35-year-old Frenchman, is among seven active NBA players with over 10,000 points, 5,000 rebounds, and 1,500 three-pointers. He expressed reluctance to leave the Clippers, praising coach Tyronn Lue for revitalizing his career.

“It’s difficult to find someone with a higher basketball IQ and better leadership than Nico,” said Lawrence Frank, Clippers president of basketball operations. “We didn’t want to lose him last year and felt his absence. His style of play resonates with our fans and organization. We’re excited to have him back.”

Jones achieved career highs last season with 8.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and one assist per game in 76 games for the Dallas Mavericks. He also started in 22 playoff games, averaging 9.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, although the Mavericks fell to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals.

Jones, aged 27, has previously played for Phoenix, Miami, Portland, and Chicago, and won the NBA Slam Dunk contest in 2020.

Porter began the 2020-21 season inactive with Cleveland following an offseason legal issue, which was later resolved. He was subsequently traded to Houston during that season.