 Nimphius became a starter for the Clippers under Coach Don Chaney.He averaged 12.0 points and 5.9 rebounds in 67 games as the Clippers finished 32–50.In 1986–1987 Nimphius played 38 games for the Clippers, averaging 7.8 points and 3.5 rebounds before he was traded to Detroit for two high draft picks.