There is a lot of buzz around Paul George’s contract extension with the Los Angeles Clippers. The Los Angeles Clippers, valued at a staggering $4.5 billion, are not just another franchise in the NBA; they are a powerhouse making strategic moves as the playoffs approach. Central to their strategy is the future of Paul George, an All-Star forward whose contract discussions are sparking interest across the league.
The Clippers’ Aim: Locking Down Their Stars
The Clippers’ ambitions are clear: they want to keep their top players in-house. This was evident when Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Kawhi Leonard, another All-Star forward, had already agreed to a contract extension with the team. The focus now shifts to Paul George. Since he arrived from the OKC Thunder in 2019, George has been a vital asset to the Clippers, despite battling injuries. This season, he’s been a consistent presence on the court, missing only two games and averaging impressive stats of 23.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
Paul George’s Impact and Potential Extension
George’s performance since joining the Clippers has been notable. He’s not only a former Most Improved Player but also a two-time All-Star with the team. The Clippers, having shown their willingness to invest heavily in Leonard, are expected to pursue a similar route with George. The aim is to secure both star forwards before they hit free agency, ensuring the team’s competitive edge.
The Clippers’ Strategy: Investing in Top Talent
Since acquiring Leonard and George in the 2019 offseason, the Clippers have been in pursuit of an NBA championship. Leonard, with three contracts under his belt with the team, including a new three-year extension worth over $150 million, has been a key part of their strategy. George, on the other hand, inked a four-year, $176 million deal during the 2020 offseason. This potential new deal would mark his second contract with the Clippers.
Despite the high expectations, the Clippers have fallen short of reaching the NBA Finals, coming close only once in 2021. That year, they were defeated by the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference Finals, with George stepping up to average nearly 29 points per game in Leonard’s injury absence.
Sign an extension ✔️
Sign the game ball ✔️This is a Kawhi Leonard Appreciation Post. pic.twitter.com/Ga4KBfcTWK
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) January 11, 2024
Looking Ahead: The Clippers’ Playoff Aspirations
The addition of James Harden earlier this season has bolstered the Clippers’ lineup, positioning them for a deep playoff run. Although they had a rocky start, the team, currently fourth in the Western Conference with a 23-13 record, has found a way for their stars to co-exist successfully.
The Clippers’ Bold Moves Pre-Playoffs
As the NBA playoffs loom, the Clippers are making bold moves to ensure their top players remain part of their quest for a championship. Securing George’s future with the franchise will be a significant step in maintaining their status as a formidable force in the league. The Clippers’ strategy of investing in their stars highlights their commitment to success and their belief in the talent they have assembled.
