Seven years after the Rockets blasted off for Houston, the NBA came sailing back into San Diego as the Braves moved from Buffalo, changing their name to the Clippers. One of the Clippers' first big moves was the signing of Free Agent World B.

Free, who finished second in the NBA in scoring with 28. 8 ppg.

Also turning in a solid season was Randy Smith, who had his fourth straight season over 20 ppg as the Clippers put together a 43-39 record. However, it would not be good enough for one of the six playoff spots in the Western Conference.