The Clippers are taking steps to rebuild their roster for the upcoming season, and Kawhi Leonard has just signed a three-year, $149.7 million extension with the team. Although this move is below the max offer, Leonard opted to take a discount in order to remain where he wanted to be. However, the next step in their plans is still uncertain. While Paul George has a player extension worth $48.8 million that he is expected to turn down, negotiations between him and the Clippers are currently at a standstill.
According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, there are other teams showing serious interest in George, including the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers. Both teams have the financial means to make competitive offers to him and are looking for a veteran wing player like him. The Clippers are hesitant to offer George a max deal due to their experience with Leonard’s negotiation process and also because of George’s age triggering the over-38 rule which limits their contract structure options.
With the Clippers already over the luxury tax entering negotiations with George, there may be complications in re-signing James Harden and potentially Russell Westbrook if George demands an expensive contract that exceeds his current value. The team is hopeful that all four stars will take a discount to play together in Los Angeles, but George may not be on board with that plan yet. This uncertainty sets up an intriguing summer for the Clippers as they try to balance their desire for success with their financial constraints.
