NBA Free Agency: Paul George's Next Move
The Situation
Assuming LeBron James remains with the Lakers, the biggest free agent on the market this summer is Paul George. An unrestricted free agent, George can join any team that has the resources to acquire him, either through cap space or a sign-and-trade with the Clippers if George decides to leave.
The Philadelphia 76ers have made it clear that George is their top target. Conveniently, they possess the necessary cap space to sign him at 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 gave Kawhi Leonard.
The Clippers could offer George his full max extension of $221 million over four years. However, if they are unwilling to go that far and the 76ers are, would George consider leaving Los Angeles for a shot at a championship alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey?
George’s Priorities
On his podcast, Paul George stated that playing the right style of basketball is his primary focus. He didn’t elaborate on what he means by the "right style of basketball." His comment is somewhat ambiguous, and he has not disclosed any specific intentions regarding his future.
Comparatively, Kevin Durant joined the Warriors because he was enamored with their ball and player movement system. The NBA generally features small stylistic differences from team to team, primarily based on personnel. Teams either utilize a movement-heavy system or a more heliocentric approach centered on high-usage stars like Luka Doncic or Trae Young.
George previously played alongside James Harden with the Clippers, but Harden is no longer the ball-dominant player he was in his prime. It’s understandable that a player of George’s caliber and age might not want to stand around waiting for someone like Luka or Trae to pass the ball with only seven seconds left on the shot clock.
Potential Suitors
The 76ers, coached by Nick Nurse, play with greater tempo and pace, using Embiid as a hub and Maxey as a downhill attacker. This could be an attractive destination for George. Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic would likely build their offense around George, given their current lack of a defined offensive identity. However, despite George’s statements about not prioritizing a championship, it's unlikely he would leave the Clippers for a team like the Magic or the Houston Rockets.
George has acknowledged the Celtics for their defensive toughness and the ability to switch across multiple positions, highlighting the importance of defense in his considerations. The defensive makeup of potential destinations is likely a key factor for George.
The Challenge of Style
When asked about his preferred style of play, George wasn’t explicit. His statement, "I want to play the right way," is rather vague and open to interpretation. There aren’t many teams in the NBA that don’t adapt their playing style according to their personnel.
The challenge for George is to find a team that not only suits his preferred style of basketball but also aligns with his career goals. While Orlando might look competitive if George brings his offense, he would also need to consider whether the team’s defensive capabilities meet his standards.
The Financial Aspect
Financially, the Clippers are in a position to offer George a four-year max contract worth $221 million, whereas the 76ers and other interested teams could potentially make competitive offers within the confines of their cap space. The decision ultimately hinges on whether the Clippers are willing to meet George’s financial and contractual expectations.
In conclusion, Paul George’s next move remains uncertain. While he is intent on playing the right style of basketball, it’s unclear which team best fits his ideals. As the summer progresses, teams with cap space will likely make their bids, and George will have to weigh his priorities, both on and off the court, to make his final decision.