The Clippers’ offseason plans have taken an unexpected turn with Kawhi Leonard opting to sign a three-year, $149.7 million extension, slightly below the max offer. This decision has set the stage for negotiations with Paul George, who is expected to decline his player option worth $48.8 million in favor of seeking a larger deal. However, negotiations between George and the Clippers are at a standstill, with other teams showing serious interest in him.
According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers are keeping a close eye on George as potential suitors. Both teams have the financial means to make a competitive offer to George and are in need of a veteran wing player like him. The Clippers are hesitant to offer George a max deal due to their history of not doing so with Leonard and the over-38 rule that triggers when he turns 34 this week, limiting the contract structure they can offer him.
With the Clippers already over the luxury tax entering negotiations with George, their hopes of re-signing James Harden and potentially Russell Westbrook could be complicated by George’s intended contract demands. The team is hopeful that all four stars will take a discount to play together in Los Angeles; however, George may not be on board with that plan. This uncertainty sets the stage for an intriguing summer for the Clippers as they navigate their offseason roster decisions while trying to balance competing priorities such as maximizing their championship potential and maintaining financial flexibility for future seasons.
