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NBA, Team News / Analysis, Lamar Odom, Jamal Crawford, Los Angeles Clippers, Grant Hill

Los Angeles Clippers Sign Grant Hill

Phoenix sports radio host John Gambadoro, the same source to first report the Steve Nash trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, has reported that Grant Hill has agreed in principle to a contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. This move not only gives Hill the opportunity to remain in close contact with his buddy Nash, he now has a chance to help the Clippers battle the Lakers for supremacy in Los Angeles.

Mar 15, 2012, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns injured forward Grant Hill watches from the bench in street clothes during the game against the Los Angeles Clippers at the Staples Center. The Suns defeated the Clippers 91-87. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Mar 15, 2012, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns injured forward Grant Hill watches from the bench in street clothes during the game against the Los Angeles Clippers at the Staples Center. The Suns defeated the Clippers 91-87. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Hill is great addition to the Clippers in an offseason that has not failed to live up to the hype. The Clippers made great strides last year with their core players, however, they needed to fill some holes entering a season where they are expected to improve. In years past, the Clippers have never been more than a punchline for NBA jokes. It seems as though they are taking every step to ensure that is no longer the case.

A bench that includes up and coming point guard Eric Bledsoe (who had a very successful postseason), Jamal Crawford and Lamar Odom, this Clippers roster seems poised to improve upon last season, which has not happened in Clippers history in over a decade.

Chris Paul wants to win. Vinny Del Negro wants to gain an extension to continue to grace the sidelines in Hollywood. Blake Griffin just signed a 5-year extension. DeAndre Jordan signed a four-year deal before last season. Caron Butler is in town for two more seasons. Jamal Crawford signed a four-year deal just this past week. Chauncey Billups wanted to come back to the Clippers because, as he said, he has "unfinished business".

The Clippers have entered into uncharted territory. They are now looked upon as a virtual lock for home-court advantage in the very competitive Western Conference. Expectations are sky high. The Clippers brand is beginning to reach international waters. Donald Sterling is opening his wallet and this time, prostitutes aren't the only people benefitting.

Clipper Nation has awaited the day where they could rival the hometown favorite Lakers. That day has finally arrived.