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By Ricardo Sandoval
Contributing Sports Writer
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The Los Angeles Clippers have built a championship-type roster for the last five seasons. The summer of 2019 was a big one for the Clippers, as they landed superstar forward Kawhi Leonard via free agency and traded for star forward Paul George. The Clippers' fortunes were looking up. However, for one reason or another, the team has failed to even reach the NBA Finals with its star duo.
Still, the team believes they are within reach, which is why it traded for former league MVP James Harden earlier this season and extended Leonard to a three-year, $149.7 million extension in January. The pieces are intact; however, one of those pieces could be out the door this summer.
According to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the Clippers may not be willing to match George's expectations for his next contract. While the expectation is George will still be in Los Angeles because Leonard is staying put, Pompey says this could mean the Clippers aren't all in on the nine-time All-Star.
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"He's also eligible to sign an extension this season, but the two sides haven't reached an agreement," Pompey writes. "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."
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The two-way star can become an unrestricted free agent this summer if he declines his 2024-2025 player option with the Clippers, which is worth $48.8 million. If this is the case, the Philadelphia 76ers are expected to go all-in on George this summer.
Pompey noted the 76ers are 'closely monitoring' Geoge's situation in Los Angeles. Pompey also said the 76ers' desire to acquire George is the 'worst kept secret in the NBA.'
George is among the best players this league has to offer when healthy. He's having himself one heck of a season, averaging 22.5 points per game on 47% shooting from the field, 5.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. The former Fresno State Bulldog would instantly make the Sixers title contenders once again, alongside superstar center Joel Embiid and up-and-coming All-Star point guard Tyrese Maxey.
The former All-NBA First teamer boasts career averages of 20.8 points on 44% shooting from the field, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 steals. He began his career as an Indiana Pacer, where he made a name for himself due to his tremendous offensive prowess and his lockdown defense.
After seven years as a Pacer, George was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following a two-season stint there, he landed with the Clippers. If things go south in Los Angeles, the 76ers could be his fourth team when he enters his age-34 season.
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