Clippers thankful that Nicolas Batum's family loves LA

Less than a year after being traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Philadelphia 76ers, Nicolas Batum decided to return to LA. It was not an easy decision for the Frenchman, who had a successful stint in Philly, playing a key role alongside former MVP Joel Embiid and up-and-coming star Tyrese Maxey.

The 76ers wanted to resign the free agent Batum following last season, and the Frenchman was conflicted, unsure which of the two franchises to choose. Ultimately, the two-time Olympic silver medalist chose the Clippers, signing a two-year $9.6M deal on July 1st.

At the time of the signing, many wondered why Batum had returned to a franchise that had traded him after being such a good fit in Philly. More than two months after that signing, details come out on two main factors that determined the veteran forward's decision: a city and a coach.

The Batums love LA

Batum, 35, has played 16 seasons in the NBA. He is married with two young kids, and his family loves living in LA. There is truly something special about the City of Angels that has everyone wanting a piece of it.

Batum's family played a vital role in his choice, as per ESPN's Tim MacMahon .

"They were really close to getting Nic Batum back," MacMahon said on the Hoop Collective podcast . "He was going back and forth between, at least my understanding, going back to Philly or going back the team that traded him–the Clippers."

"I think family played a part in him going back to the Clippers," MacMahon added. "He was pretty comfortable out in LA."

Loyal to T-Lue

Beyond family considerations, Batum's decision was influenced mainly by coach T-Lue, with whom the veteran forward shares a special relationship.

Announcing his decision, the former French Player of the Year admitted he had many options but preferred to return to LA and reunite with one of his favorite coaches.

"It's a return, indeed! I had several options, a lot of options—17, to be exact!" Batum said, referencing the number of teams that wanted to sign him. "I'll be reuniting with Ty Lue in a project I really like. It's a good thing."

It is definitely a good thing for the Clippers.

The franchise lucked out when Batum agreed to come on board, as they aim to fill the void created by Paul George's departure. While Batum is no All-Star, with his veteran presence, solid defense, and three-point shooting, Ty Lue's squad can make up much of what it lost when PG-13 left.

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