What happened: Los Angeles can match any offer sheet after making Bennedict Mathurin a restricted free agent. A sign-and-trade would require the Clippers' participation.

Why it matters: The pursuit gives Chicago and New Orleans a chance to add a 24-year-old scorer before training camp. For Los Angeles, the decision will determine whether Mathurin joins its 2026-27 core or returns value in a sign-and-trade.

What to watch: Watch for an offer sheet, a sign-and-trade framework or a new deal with the Clippers.