It is quite interesting to see Paul George involved in trade rumors. So far, he’s had a pretty decent run with the Los Angeles Clippers making a few good playoff runs and one conference finals appearance. George has been dealing with a few injuries lately that has hindered his availability over the last two seasons. Unfortunately, he wasn’t available for the Clippers’ most-season playoff scene.
The All-Star experienced a hyperextended knee which sidelined him since March 21, 2022. Somehow under Kawhi Leonard‘s leadership and with Russell Westbrook‘s support, they managed to make the playoffs. To add insult to injury, Leonard suffered from a torn meniscus midway through the Clippers vs Suns series. Ultimately, LA was eliminated by Phoenix.
PG13’s presence was heavily required in this case. He averaged 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game last season before facing his injury. But the Clippers were hoping that the George-Leonard duo would lead them to a championship immediately. However, it hasn’t happened yet. Based on recent updates, the Clippers may trade him this off-season.
The Clippers may target Portland or Houston’s draft picks for Paul George
It seems as if the Clippers aren’t willing to risk having two injury-prone players on the roster. With great potential revolving around Westbrook’s presence, it’s only viable to bring in a reliable star.
Bleacher Report’s Marc Stein recently revealed that a Paul George trade is in consideration. He said they are, “attempting to gauge Paul George’s trade value and, to hear some describe it, giving real consideration to the idea of disassembling the Kawhi Leonard/George tandem.”
Clippers are gauging Paul George’s trade value and are “giving real consideration to the idea of disassembling the Kawhi Leonard-Paul George tandem,” per @TheSteinLine pic.twitter.com/UJk4t3VeJY
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 21, 2023
George and Leonard have been on the same roster since 2019. Kawhi was coming off an incredible title reign after a short stint with the Toronto Raptors. Since then, both stars haven’t played together as often. Kawhi recently came back from an ACL injury averaging 23.8 points per game. Stein further added that both players are nearing the end of their existing contracts. It would be a task to pay $200 million and above to both players if they sign extensions.
The Blazers are using the 3rd pick in trade talks for an All-Star and are targeting forwards like Bam Adebayo or Paul George to pair with Dame.
via Jake Fischer pic.twitter.com/gPp8S9knB6
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) June 21, 2023
Stein added that the Clippers could possibly trade Paul George for this year’s No.3 or No.4 overall pick. Right now, the Portland Trail Blazers might be their best bet. Damian Lillard wants another superstar and a PG13 trade would be ideal for his situation. Portland has the No.3 overall pick in this year’s draft while the Houston Rockets have No.4.