With playoffs around the corner, speculations surrounding a star player’s next move may not please Warriors at all. Yes, Paul George is likely to stay put, as questions around his future with Los Angeles Clippers piled up. A grounded Paul George is not a good update for Steve Kerr’s squad eyeing a star of his calibre.
George joined Clippers during 2019-20 season. And since then he has emerged as one of their main players. Despite his differences with the franchise, NBA insider Brian Windhorst states, Paul isn’t going anywhere.
“Paul will agree to a deal with the Clippers”
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The problem in retaining contract with Clippers seems to be financial terms. George has a player option for the 2024-25 season worth $48.8 million, but a lucrative extension with the Clippers remains a possibility. He’s eligible for a four-year deal exceeding $221 million, a sum George wouldn’t be able to command elsewhere.
“The league believes that Paul George wants to remain a Clipper,” Windhorst said. Negotiations on a contract extension haven’t finalised yet, but Windhorst anticipates an eventual agreement: “My informed speculation is that, eventually, Paul will agree to a deal with the Clippers. It may not be for the full max, but it may be for more than what the Clippers have been offering.”
This perfectly aligns with Clippers’ strategy of retaining young talented players. Kawhi Leonard’s recent contract extension, which fell short of the maximum allowed, was reportedly part of this plan.
Implications for Clippers
Golden State Warriors are currently fighting for the playoff positioning. They could be the first victim of contract extension. Warriors with championship ambitions might consider George a potential target in free agency. George would improve Warriors’ roster alongside Curry and Thompson. But his contract extension with Clippers will take him off the market.
Clippers future relies heavily on contract extension. Except George, James Harden’s contract is also expiring. Harden is set to become an unrestricted free agent, adding another layer of uncertainty to the team’s roster dynamics. Also Clippers moving into new Arena from the next season adds intrigue to franchise’s future. The decisions made in upcoming months will shape the franchise’s future for many years.
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For the Clippers, securing George’s commitment could provide stability and continuity as they pursue their first NBA championship. The franchise will look forward to navigate the regular season and focus on playoffs. They are still in contention for Western Conference race. Despite these speculations only time will tell the outcome of George’s decision and its effect for the Clippers and the league.