June 24 update: According to prominent sports journalist Marc Stein, Paul George’s next stop could be the New York Knicks.
Stein reports that if George decides to exercise his $48.8 million player option for the 2024-25 season, the Knicks would be “a potential pursuer in trade talks.” He writes, “A reliable source told me that if George indeed chooses to enter his final year with the Clippers at a price of $48.8 million, the Knicks will remain a possible target for him. This move would give George leverage to push for a trade from LA to another team.”
In the 2022-23 season, George played in 74 games, averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He helped the Clippers achieve a 51-31 record, securing the fourth seed in the West and advancing to the playoffs, but were eliminated by the Dallas Mavericks in the first round.
For the Clippers, retaining George and aiming for a championship may be appealing, but their roster depth could prompt a rebuilding effort. Trading George might initiate this process, allowing them to acquire valuable young assets in return.
Last season, the Knicks finished second in the Eastern Conference and reached the Eastern Conference Semifinals. George could be a key piece for the Knicks to advance further in the playoffs, potentially forming a new core alongside Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Julius Randle.
