In the whirlwind of the NBA transfer market, the rumor mill is currently abuzz with a potential shift in allegiance for Los Angeles Clippers’ star, Paul George.
According to Keith Pompey, a respected NBA reporter from The Philadelphia Inquirer, the Philadelphia 76ers are said to be “closely monitoring” George’s contractual stalemate with the Clippers.
The belief is that the Clippers are unwilling to meet Paul George's expectations for his next contract, per @PompeyOnSixers
“The Sixers are closely monitoring the situation, hoping the Clippers let George slip away.”
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The uncertainties surrounding George’s future seem to be mounting, as his $48.8 million player option with Clippers for 2024-25 season can potentially make him an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
Thus, the ball is in George’s court – whether to extend his tenure with the Clippers or venture into a free agency.
“That is why the Sixers are closely monitoring the situation, hoping the Clippers let George slip away,” Pompey wrote. “But the Clippers have to know their roster, as currently constructed, is dangerous as long as it remains healthy. George and his representation also realize that.”
However, NBA insider Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report suggests that the Sixers could capitalize on George’s possible free agency status.
It’s believed that they’re preparing to table a considerable offer for George, if the Clippers’ contract extension doesn’t come to fruition by June 30.
“You can argue that it would be best for George to move if the Clippers don’t up their offer,” Pompey wrote. “And that’s where the Sixers, who could create close to $65 million in cap space this summer, come in. Even if George isn’t interested in Philly, it makes sense for him to entertain the idea and force the Clippers’ hand.”
The Clippers managed to hold onto their other star player, Kawhi Leonard, in January with a whopping $149 million extension for three years.
However, George’s situation remains haywire, inviting speculations around his next career move since joining the Clippers in the summer of 2019.
While George’s individual stats appear impressive, the Clippers’ performance with him has been somewhat inconsistent.
After their loss in the second round of the 2020 playoffs, they further stumbled in the 2021 Western Conference Finals, missed the playoffs in 2022, and fell in the first route of the 2023 playoffs.
Despite the Clippers’ tumultuous journey, George has maintained his individual spotlights.
With an average of 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, with the shooting stats of 47.% from the field, 40.9% beyond the arc, and 89.7% free-throws.
