The Los Angeles Clippers are hoping to continue their current power.
According to ESPN reporter Adrian Woznarowski, the Clippers are looking to re-sign Paul George (forward, 203 cm, 100 kg) and James Harden (guard, 196 cm, 100 kg).
That's a natural step. The Clippers agreed to a three-year, $153 million contract extension with Kawhi Leonard during the season. Then, they also wanted to sign an extension with George. However, the contract could not be reached. There may have been differences over the terms.
George has also indicated his intention to stay. However, there was no word on the contract at the end. As his contract has yet to be concluded, the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic and other teams that have enough money for salary cap are interested in recruiting him. For the Clippers, a significant loss of power is expected if George moves. George will have player options available after the season.
George played in 74 games for the Clippers this season. He played 33.8 minutes per game, scoring 22.6 points (.471.413.907) with 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals. Not only is he an ace pitcher for the team, but he is also one of the best offense and defense players in the league. He played in more than 70 games in a single season for the first time since moving to Hollywood.
The same goes for Harden. The Clippers traded Harden earlier this season. Signed to a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers last summer that included options, he stayed through the option and then asked for a trade. Heading to Hollywood, he helped the Clippers take off. However, his contract expires after the season.
Harden's record has declined slightly. He played as a full point guard for the Clippers. As his skills have improved somewhat since his heyday, he focused on finding teams and combinations. He averaged 34.3 minutes in 72 games, posting 16.6 points (.428.381.878) 5.1 rebounds, 8.5 assists, and 1.1 steals. He was not responsible for an average of 20 points for the first time since he switched to the Houston Rockets in the 2012-2013 season.
The Clippers have no other option. Given Leonard's injury woes year after year, George and Harden are essential for maintaining power. The Clippers haven't played in many big games with full strength in the aftermath of Leonard's injury. But Harden is the centerpiece. Leonard's absence still deserves a challenge high enough, if not 100%.
If they are all transferred, it will be difficult for the Clippers to recruit players from outside. Even if they are all transferred, their total salary for the upcoming 2024-2025 season will be close to salary cap (about 141 million dollars). It is possible to recruit players from outside. However, it is difficult to bring in such players. Even if next season's spending goes beyond the luxury tax mark again, it may be better to stay with them.
It would be icing on the cake if you caught both, but even if you caught only one of them, you can minimize the loss. As Leonard is present, if one of the two is left, it is worth continuing as a powerhouse. However, there is no way to avoid weakening power. Russell Westbrook is no longer limited to his main power, and if they fall out, he will not only weaken his overall power but also thin the player base.
BY: 사설토토
