Paul George is widely expected to decline his $48.8 million player option with the LA Clippers for the next season, setting the stage for a significant shift in the NBA landscape this summer.
Despite earlier expectations that Paul George would follow suit after Kawhi Leonard’s extension with the Clippers, negotiations appear to have stalled, particularly around the Clippers’ reluctance to offer a max deal.
As George prepares to enter free agency, three teams have emerged as potential destinations: the Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Indiana Pacers. Both the Magic and 76ers are prepared to make the necessary financial adjustments to offer George a max contract, which could reach just over $49 million for the 2024-25 season.
RETURN TO INDIANA
The Indiana Pacers, the team that drafted him, where Paul George previously played until 2017, are also in the mix, envisioning a high-profile reunion. Since his departure, the Pacers have significantly improved, bolstered by the emergence of stars like Tyrese Haliburton and recently Pascal Siakam.
With George, the Pacers could realistically aim for greater success, especially following their recent advance to the Eastern Conference semi-finals after defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 4-2 in the first round.
While the player has expressed a desire to remain with the Clippers, the financial dynamics could complicate those plans. The Clippers hope George will accept a deal below the max, similar to Leonard, to provide the franchise with greater flexibility under the NBA’s salary cap restrictions.
This strategy would enable the Clippers to enhance their roster further around their core stars. However, with substantial interest from other teams and the potential for a sentimental return to Indiana, George’s decision remains a focal point of the offseason. Orlando and Philly remain a big possibility as well.
