Kofi Inkoom
After extending coach Tyronn Lue’s contract by five years, worth over $70 million on Wednesday, the Clippers are determined to keep Paul George in free agency, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
George, who was anticipated to be a top free agent this offseason, is now likely unavailable for interested teams due to thoughts of a possible extension with the Clippers. Despite potential interest from the Philadelphia 76ers, George’s future with the Clippers seems more secure.
Miami Heat beat writer Barry Jackson believes it will be fascinating to see the 76ers contact the Heat regarding Jimmy Butler in the coming weeks.
“With Woj reporting Clippers are determined to re-sign Paul George (who has been widely reported as 76ers’ top choice with their max cap space), it will be fascinating to see if they call Heat on Butler in weeks ahead. The Sixers can trade as many as 3 1st rounders, 6 2nd rounders. After next month’s draft, they could trade 5 first-rounders & seven 2nd rounders.” Barry wrote
“Remember, Heat doesn’t need to take back any money by trading Butler to 76ers for 4-5 1st rounders or whatever. The Heat typically never makes this type of trade. But if they have another trade set up where they could flip all those 1sts and couple players (but NOT ALL THEIR TOP YOUNG GUYS) for an All Star, then it becomes fascinating discussion.” He added.
Butler, who is eligible for an extension this offseason, has a player option for the 2025-26 season worth $52.4 million. Despite turning 35 in September, he remains a key player for the Heat, averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 60 games this season.
The Heat, led by Butler, made the NBA Finals twice during his tenure after he joined the team in 2019 via a sign-and-trade deal with the Sixers. They were eliminated in the first round of this year’s playoffs by the Boston Celtics in five games, with Butler sidelined due to a knee injury.