Kofi Inkoom
What happens next with star forward Paul George is likely to shape the rest of the market this summer, as per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst on the Pat McAfee Show.
Reportedly, George and the Clippers are “not on the same page” in their contract talks according to Windhorst. George could opt out of his current deal’s final year, becoming an unrestricted free agent.
Paul George and the Clippers are reportedly “not on the same page” in contract negotiations, per @WindhorstESPN
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Both the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, who have cap space and need a playmaker like George, are interested in him.
Despite being eligible for a four-year extension worth up to $221.1 million with the Clippers, George hasn’t signed. If he doesn’t secure a new deal by June 30, he could decline his $48.8 million player option for the 2024-25 season and enter free agency.
Even if George leaves, re-signing Harden could push the Clippers over the $141 million salary cap. Re-signing both George and Harden would likely exceed the $189.5 million second apron, imposing roster-building restrictions like losing access to the mid-level exception and facing trade limitations.
George, a nine-time All-Star and four-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection, has twice received MVP votes, including a third-place finish in 2019.
Over his career, he has impressive averages of 20.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 2.6 three-pointers, and 1.7 steals per game, with shooting percentages of 44.0% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.
George is known for his ability to excel in all areas of the game, making him one of the NBA’s most versatile players. However, injuries have plagued him in recent years, limiting him to 48, 54, 31, and 56 games from the 2019-20 to the 2022-23 seasons.
This season, though, he managed to stay healthy, starting in 74 games and averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 3.3 three-pointers, and 1.5 steals per game.