Report: Clippers interested in former NBA player Zhou Qi

The Los Angeles Clippers are in need of a backup big man. With Isaiah Hartenstein leaving for the New York Knicks, L.A. must find Ivica Zubac some support at the rim.

According to Matt Eaton of the South China Morning Post, Qi "is now rumored to be in talks with the Los Angeles Clippers." 

Qi suited up for the Houston Rockets in 2017 but didn't pan out. Honored as the best player for China's national team in FIBA qualifiers, the international big looks to revisit the world's most competitive league.

As of late, Qi has dominated in the NBL for SEM Phoenix and has been recognized for his elite defensive presence. Eaton adds that the ex-Rocket is unlikely to return to Phoenix as "the team’s CEO Tommy Greer and head coach Simon Mitchell hinted they were looking to replace the Chinese superstar." The club has removed Qi's likeness from their official website and the Australian league has marked him a free agent.

The Clippers have encouraged competition for remaining roster spots in recent training camps, with the latest being Hartenstein's victory over Harry Giles III. After announcing the camp invite to Moses Brown, and drafting the current two-way contract with Moussa Diabate, it's clear LA will repeat the internal battles.

Los Angeles being linked to Qi shouldn't be a surprise. The team, alongside having needs for a center, also revives the careers of players who have been written off. Players like Nico Batum embody what could be in store for a Qi-Clippers marriage.