Potential Teams for Paul George in Free Agency
Assuming LeBron James stays with the Lakers, the biggest free agent on the market this summer is undoubtedly Paul George. As an unrestricted free agent, George has the freedom to sign with any team that possesses the necessary resources, either through cap space or a sign-and-trade with the Clippers, especially if George indicates his intention to leave.
Philadelphia 76ers: A Prime Contender
The Philadelphia 76ers have made it clear that George is their top target, and they have enough cap space to offer him a maximum salary. According to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Clippers are unwilling to offer George more than the three-year, $152.3 million extension they previously gave to Kawhi Leonard.
However, the Clippers have the ability to offer George his full maximum contract of $221 million over four years. The key question is whether they are willing to go that far. If not, and if the 76ers step up with a lucrative offer, George might leave Los Angeles for a chance at a championship alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
George mentioned on his podcast that playing the right style of basketball is paramount for him. However, he did not elaborate on what that style exactly entails, leaving room for speculation. Despite his guarded comments, George’s priorities might provide some insight into his summer intentions.
Comparison with Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant once chose to join the Golden State Warriors because he wanted to play in their ball and player movement system—an approach that was unique in the NBA at the time. While there are minor differences in play styles across teams, the essence of a team's style depends heavily on its personnel. Generally, teams either emphasize ball movement or adhere to a more heliocentric style centered around high-usage stars like Luka Doncic or Trae Young.
George played with James Harden during his time with the Clippers, but Harden is no longer the ball-dominant player he was in his prime. One can imagine George, given his caliber and age, not wanting to play in a system where he spends most of his time waiting for players like Luka or Trae to pass him the ball with only seconds remaining on the shot clock.
Evaluating Interested Teams
Among the teams expected to pursue George, it’s crucial to consider which of them aligns with his preference for playing the "right style" of basketball. George seems to be content with the Clippers' style, but is it enough to retain him?
The 76ers, under the guidance of Nick Nurse, play with more tempo and pace, focusing on Embiid as their central hub and Maxey as a downhill attacker. This dynamic style could be appealing to George.
The Orlando Magic, lacking a defined offensive identity, would likely tailor their offense around George if they managed to sign him. While George claims he is not prioritizing a championship, it is hard to imagine him leaving the Clippers for the Magic or the Houston Rockets, given their current standings and future prospects.
George has also noted the toughness of the Boston Celtics, who boast a roster capable of defending and switching across multiple positions. Defensive prowess is indeed a factor George is weighing heavily in his decision.
A Complex Decision
Orlando could become an attractive option if George’s offensive skills are added into the mix. While teams with substantial cap space might seem like the leading contenders, history has shown that where there’s a will, there’s a way in the intricate world of NBA contracts and trades.
Ultimately, whatever George’s preferred style of play may be, he did not expound on it. Phrases like "I want to play the right way" often serve more as placeholders than revealing insights. The decision will likely come down to a combination of financial incentives, potential for winning, and organizational fit.
Still, as the free agency period approaches, Paul George is poised to be at the center of some intense speculation and negotiation. Teams will need to show not only the money but also the style and culture that align with what George seeks at this stage of his illustrious career.