Kofi Inkoom
Amidst the chatter about Paul George’s potential free agency move this summer, reports suggest he’s leaning towards exploring his options rather than settling for contract extensions with the Clippers.
One NBA analyst, Dan Favale of Bleacher Report, has put forth an intriguing trade proposal between the Clippers and Knicks. In this scenario:
Clippers would acquire : Bojan Bogdanović, Julius Randle, Jericho Sims, along with the No. 24 and No. 38 draft picks, as well as Milwaukee’s 2025 first-round pick (with top-four protection) and a 2026 first-round pick.
In return, the Knicks would snag Paul George, provided he opts into his contract.
The Los Angeles Clippers were defeated by Luka Doncic’s Dallas Mavericks in the opening round of the 2024 playoffs, falling short in six games. George faces a decision with a player option for the upcoming season valued at $48.8 million.
As the Clippers, a team yet to grace the NBA Finals in their history, approach June 30, they must decide whether to extend George’s contract. Earlier this year, they secured Kawhi Leonard with a hefty three-year, $149 million extension.
George showcased solid numbers this season for the Clippers, averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, with shooting percentages of 47.1% from the field, 41.3% from beyond the arc, and an impressive 90.7% from the free-throw line.
In another arena, the New York Knicks emerged victorious against the Philadelphia 76ers in a six-game bout during this year’s playoffs. Randle’s season came to an abrupt halt when he dislocated his right shoulder against the Miami Heat on January 27.
Randle, who contributed 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game this season for the Knicks, demonstrated shooting accuracy of 47.2% from the field, 31.1% from downtown, and 78.1% from the free-throw line.
“The Knicks present an enticing option for George, affording him the opportunity to assume the role of secondary scorer while possessing the depth to navigate his potential limitations,” expressed Favale.
“For the Clippers, however, the situation might demand an alternative approach. The looming threat of George’s impending free agency, particularly considering the Philadelphia 76ers’ available cap space, adds complexity to the equation.
“Should the prospect of losing him without compensation become a reality, the proposed deal holds considerable appeal. Both Bogdanović and Randle, the latter holding a player option for the 2025-26 season, offer shot creation capabilities on short-term commitments. Despite skepticism, Randle’s improved playmaking and willingness to fulfill supplementary roles mark significant strides this year.”
George boasts career averages of 20.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across stints with the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Clippers, while Randle maintains career averages of 19.1 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists with the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Knicks.