Clippers Sign James Robinson for $10.5 Million

The Clippers on Saturday moved to strengthen their backcourt and maybe even replace their starting point guard, signing free agent James Robinson to a five-year, $10.5-million contract.

The 6-foot-2 Robinson spent last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the three before that with the Portland Trail Blazers, primarily as a shooting guard. But the Clippers, wasting no time in capitalizing after the salary cap increased Friday, acquired him with the expectation of challenging incumbent Darrick Martin, and Pooh Richardson, at the point.

If Robinson, 26, beats out Martin, it likely means a new starting backcourt. The Clippers earlier made a commitment to Brent Barry at shooting guard by cutting ties to Malik Sealy and Terry Dehere, and they are confident that the arrival of a solid defender such as Robinson will help Barry progress.

Robinson averaged 8.3 points, 1.3 assists and 19 minutes with the Timberwolves.