It’s fair to suggest that Paul George dictates the NBA’s upcoming free-agency period since his decision could shake up the balance of power in the league.
For example, if he were to sign with the Sixers, the Celtics would have to contend with the new Big Three of George, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey out East.
Similarly, if the nine-time All-Star were to sign with the Magic or Thunder, the West’s top contenders such as the Nuggets and Mavericks would have to deal with a powerful new foe.
And if George were to remain with the Clippers, it would extend the championship window of Tyronn Lue’s team, which has been severely plagued by injuries in recent years.
So, which way is George leaning? On the latest episode of “Podcast P,” the two-way wing provided insight into his mindset ahead of free agency.
“Contributing to winning basketball,” George said of his top priority. “At this point, I’m not even necessarily — you know people say ‘chasing a championship.’ Like, it’s not that. But it’s playing the right style of basketball is what I’m chasing.”
George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game during his fifth season with the Clippers. According to several insiders, the Sixers and Magic are willing to offer him the max contract to pry him away from Los Angeles.
The NBA’s free-agency period gets underway on June 30. However, a rule in the new CBA allows teams to sign their existing free agents to extensions before they hit the open market. As such, the Clippers and George could agree to a new contract beforehand, rendering him unavailable to other teams.
