Insider Reveals Rift Between Clippers and George, Making Him 76ers’ Top Choice This Summer

On June 15, news emerged that the contract extension negotiations between Paul George and the Los Angeles Clippers remain uncertain. During an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show earlier this week, renowned sports commentator Brian Windhorst stated that George and the Clippers “have essentially exchanged numbers; they’re not on the same page.” Windhorst commented, “If Paul George decides to opt out and become an unrestricted free agent, that’ll be fascinating. I think the big move this summer will be a trade, not a free-agent signing.”

Windhorst also mentioned the possibility of a sign-and-trade deal between the Clippers and the Philadelphia 76ers, as all signs point to George being the 76ers’ top priority, although they might not engage in free agency at all.

Both George and the Clippers could have reached an agreement earlier this year, but it didn’t materialize. Leonard had already signed a 3-year extension with the Clippers in January, worth slightly below $150 million. It’s worth noting that this was not a max contract for Leonard. Perhaps the Clippers were hoping George would accept a similar deal, knowing he could secure a max contract in free agency.

Windhorst suggested, “If they don’t get [George], the 76ers aren’t necessarily signing a player. I think the real big move this summer will be a trade – teams taking on salary in trades. If Philadelphia doesn’t get Paul George, they might try to use their cap space to trade for a player.”

Two prominent names that could emerge in the trade market are former teammates Jimmy Butler and Brandon Ingram of the Pelicans. Following the 76ers’ elimination by the Knicks, Windhorst connected the team with George, Butler, and Ingram.

“We might see the biggest moves around the draft… That’s when the trading season starts, who knows? You might see a move involving Paul George – whether he’s traded elsewhere or decides to stay with the Clippers.”