Los Angeles Clippers fans feel more upbeat than usual, with a strong sense of optimism. While some other teams are not performing as well as expected, the Clippers have an excellent opportunity to claim the top spot in the Western Conference with Paul George, especially with teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves leading the way.
Although reaching the NBA Finals remains the ultimate goal for the Clippers, there’s another important topic on their agenda. The team’s 49-year-old coach recently highlighted the need to focus on immediate success and building a solid future for the franchise.
Paul George can be the main issue for the Clippers
The situation with Paul George is a bit more uncertain. He has a player option worth $48.8 million for the upcoming season, which means he could become a free agent. However, George has expressed his desire to sign an extension with the Clippers and continue playing in Los Angeles. There are rumors of interest from Philadelphia, but talks between George and the Clippers are ongoing, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst on The Hoop Collective Podcast, as reported by Bleacher Report.
NBA fans were expecting the Clippers to extend George’s contract, especially after they extended Leonard’s contract for about $149 million in January for 3 years. However, that hasn’t happened yet.
George’s performance this season was great. He’s been scoring an average of 22.5 points per game, grabbing 5.3 rebounds, dishing out 3.6 assists, snatching 1.6 steals, and blocking 0.5 shots. His shooting percentages are impressive, too, with 47.0% from the field, 40.9% from three-point range, and a stellar 89.7% from the free-throw line. Notably, George played college basketball at Fresno State before making it big in the NBA, and he’s currently earning $45.6 million.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Who Could Pursue Paul If He Opts Out?
According to Wojnarowski, six NBA teams are in a position to make a bid for George if he decides to leave Los Angeles. These teams include the Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, Utah Jazz, Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs, and the Orlando Magic, as they are projected to have enough salary cap space.
Among these teams, Detroit, Utah, and San Antonio are currently focused on rebuilding their rosters. While adding George would undoubtedly improve these teams, it wouldn’t automatically make them championship contenders. That’s why he isn’t considered a fit for their current plans.
On the other hand, George could potentially enhance his legacy by leading teams like the Sixers, Thunder, or Magic to championship success, which would be a significant achievement in his career.
In the comment section below, let us know what you think about Paul George’s decision if he leaves; we would love to hear about it.
Also Read: Spurs vs Knicks: NBA Fines Victor Wembanyama for Tossing Ball Into Stands After Victory
