Photo credit: Last word on Sports
76ers eyeing Paul George as top offseason target
As per NBA reporter Keith Pompey from The Philadelphia Inquirer, Paul George is anticipated to be the primary offseason focus for the Philadelphia 76ers if he opts out of his 2024-25 player contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. George holds the option to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, with his 2024-25 player contract valued at $48.8 million.
''Yes, the Sixers have plenty of room to make a significant move,'' Pompey wrote. ''And they intend to do just that. Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George is expected to be their top target if declines his $48.8 million player option with L.A. for next season.''
The Clippers retain the option to extend George's contract until June 30, having recently locked in Kawhi Leonard with a three-year, $149 million deal.
George is displaying strong performance this season, averaging 22.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks, with shooting percentages of 47.0% from the field, 41.2% from beyond the arc, and 90.7% from the free-throw line, while earning $45.6 million.
The team's postseason fortunes could shape owner Steve Ballmer's stance on retaining George, given the Clippers' historical failure to reach the NBA Finals, even after the acquisitions of George and Leonard in 2019.
Acquiring George would bolster the Sixers' lineup, forming a formidable trio alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
With career averages of 20.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.4 blocks, George, a nine-time All-Star, will celebrate his 34th birthday in May.
Pompey suggests the Clippers might be hesitant to meet George's contract demands, raising doubts about his future with the team.
Despite initial anticipation for the Clippers to extend George's contract following Leonard's deal, no such agreement has materialized thus far.
''He's also eligible to sign an extension this season, but the two sides haven't reached an agreement,» Pompey wrote. ''The belief is that Los Angeles isn't willing to match Paul George's expectations for his next contract. Reports have circulated suggesting the Clippers' offer is less than Leonard's three-year, $149.7 million extension.''
More to come.
Source Hoopswire : Report: Paul George Expected To Be 76ers' Top Offseason Target If He Declines Player Option With Clippers
Source RealGM : Sixers Will Make Paul George 'Top Target' In Offseason
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April 12 | 15 answers 76ers eyeing Paul George as top offseason target Do you believe Paul George will remain a Clippers next season? | ||
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