Paul George’s future is up in the air.
The nine-time All-Star controls his free agency destiny with a player option with the Clippers for 2024-25, but rumor has it he’s seeking a long-term deal in Los Angeles and could opt for free agency if he doesn’t get the number he’s looking for.
George, who averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 74 games this season, would be a welcome addition to almost every team, setting up a possible free agency sweepstakes for his services this summer.
While oddsmakers still believe it likely that George will return to the Clippers for their first season at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, plenty of other teams are expected to line up as well.
There’s a lot of smoke surrounding the 76ers (+350), and George and DraftKings bookies agree that Philadelphia is a very realistic destination for the 34-year-old star.
| Paul George next team odds |
|---|
| Los Angeles Clippers -255 |
| Philadelphia 76ers +350 |
| Orlando Magic 12/1 |
| Los Angeles Lakers 15/1 |
| New York Knicks 20/1 |
| New Orleans Pelicans 20/1 |
| Miami Heat 20/1 |
| Oklahoma City Thunder 25/1 |
The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor reported earlier this month that George is the 76ers’ “Plan A” as they enter this offseason with up to $65 million in cap space.
Philadelphia has yet to make the conference finals during the Joel Embiid era despite seven straight playoff appearances, and George would make a perfect pairing next to him and Tyrese Maxey.
The Magic (+1200), who are also flush in cap space this offseason, are the next team on DraftKings’ odds board.
Orlando made the postseason for the first time in four seasons, winning a surprising 47 games in the regular season, and will look to add veteran talent to their young roster as they look to take the next step as a team.
The next few teams are ones that often pop up when it comes to star-hunting in the NBA, most notably, the Lakers (+1500) and Knicks (+2000).
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Adding George would likely take a sign-and-trade in both situations.
With their treasure trove of assets, the Knicks could conceivably put together an offer the Clippers may consider.
The Lakers, with fewer picks and young players to give up, appear less enticing for the Clippers, although George could try to force a trade to stay in Southern California.
