4:59pm: Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress.com is hearing that the Clippers opened up a roster spot because they want to sign a "youngish point guard" (Twitter link).
3:06pm: The Clippers have released big man Trey Thompkins, the team announced today in a press release. Taking into account Maalik Wayns, who is on a 10-day contract, the team had been carrying 15 players, so the move opens up a roster spot.
"We want to thank Trey for his contribution to the Clippers," Clippers head coach Vinny Del Negro said in the release. "Unfortunately, he was never able to truly showcase his talents this season due to injuries. We wish him all the best and believe he has a bright future."
Thompkins, 22, has been sidelined for the entire 2012/13 season with what we heard was a bone bruise in his left knee. The Georgia product appeared in 24 games last season for the Clippers after being drafted by the team 37th overall in the 2011 draft. He had a non-guaranteed season on his deal for 2013/14, but it appears the team either knew it wouldn't be bringing him back or wanted to open up a roster spot for another signing — or both.
Assuming Thompkins clears waivers, the Clippers will be on the hook for the remainder of his minimum salary for '12/13.