Key Takeaways:
– The Philadelphia 76ers might be adding top-tier NBA star Paul George to their roster.
– Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey shared that the 76ers might offer George a four-year deal worth roughly $212 million.
– A sign-and-trade deal could be on the table involving Tobias Harris.
– Speculations rise about George seeking a deal richer than Kawhi Leonard’s $152.4 million contract extension.
Philadelphia 76ers’ Possible Power Move
The Philadelphia 76ers could take center stage this offseason. Rumors are swirling about their intent to acquire some of the NBA’s biggest talents. They have been linked with basketball behemoths like Jimmy Butler, LeBron James, and Paul George. All these stars could potentially join the Sixers through trades or free agency.
Paul George: The LA Clippers Hotshot Still in Play?
For a while, it seemed like the Sixers were losing interest in Paul George, the current star player of the LA Clippers. Nonetheless, Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer insists that George is still high on their list. He suggests that the 76ers could tempt George with a four-year deal. The deal could be valued at approximately $212 million.
A Possible Trade Scenario
Pompey shared a possible trade scenario. The Clippers may ask for a sign-and-trade deal with George if he wished to relocate. In response, the Sixers could hand over their No. 16 pick. They might even throw in Tobias Harris, a soon-to-be free agent and former Clipper, as part of the package deal. This plan could work out well, as there are reports suggesting that L.A. has a level of interest in Harris.
A Homecoming for Harris and More Help for Embiid
This could stand as a homecoming for Harris. He starred for the Clippers for a little over a season before moving to the Sixers in the 2018-19 trades. This proposition solidifies the Sixers as a potential landing spot for George. Any doubts were snuffed out when Joel Embiid made clear his team’s need for more robust support during the NBA Finals.
George’s Current Contract and the Upcoming Deadline
Presently, George is in the last year of a hefty four-year contract, worth around $176.2 million. He holds a player option worth $48.7 million for the 2024-25 season. He needs to decide by June 29 whether he will make use of his options.
Denver-based sports writer Shams Charania reported on June 20 that the Sixers’ interest in George seemed to have cooled down. Marc Stein of The Stein Line disagreed, highlighting considerable skepticism in the sports community about the Sixers dropping their pursuit of George. Stein suggested that until George has settled his future with the Clippers or a different team outside Philly, the Sixers wouldn’t back out completely.
The Road Ahead
Paul George boasts a strong portfolio as a nine-time All-Star and a six-time All-NBA selection. He has bagged the All-Defensive Team title four times, besides being the steals champion of 2017-18. Therefore, it’s no surprise that he has several potential suitors.
However, some are concerned about Philippe’s potential interest in George due to his consistent performance. If George does get a contract, it could quickly ramp up the Sixers’ expenses again. The team is also considering a $205 million contract extension for player Tyrese Maxey. Plus, there are talks about a new deal for Joel Embiid. As the season unfolds, fans and players are excited to see what the future holds for the Sixers and their potential game-changer, Paul George.