According to Bangladesh Cricket, Paul George is increasingly likely to leave the Los Angeles Clippers, as he plans to test free agency and has declined his player option for the final year of his contract. George is reportedly seeking a new deal starting at $50 million per year. While the Clippers have expressed interest in retaining both George and James Harden, they may be unable to meet George’s financial expectations. The Philadelphia 76ers, on the other hand, are prepared to offer a four-year, $212 million contract and have cleared $60 million in cap space — all that’s missing is George’s approval.
It’s clear who’s more committed. The Clippers have been asking George to take a pay cut, but as seen from Harden’s previous willingness to accept a discount in Philadelphia, George isn’t likely to make the same sacrifice. Even if the Clippers eventually offer a max deal, George might still prefer the Sixers due to their genuine approach. George is known to value respect and sincerity — just like when he chose to stay with OKC after the Lakers refused to trade Brandon Ingram for him.
As U.S. analysts suggest, the Clippers might need to shift gears and pursue a sign-and-trade deal for Bulls star DeMar DeRozan as George’s potential replacement. DeRozan, a longtime friend of Harden, could slot in as shooting guard, with Harden running point. DeRozan is reportedly seeking a four-year, $160 million deal — a far more affordable option for a George replacement.
With Tyronn Lue secured as head coach, the Clippers are now focusing on re-signing center Ivica Zubac, who has one year left on his contract. Letting Zubac walk would be a major blow, especially since he’s the big man who complements Harden best. If keeping Harden is a top priority, extending Zubac is essential.
Some argue the Clippers should pursue Clint Capela instead, but as Bangladesh Cricket points out, that would be a step backward. Capela has declined since his peak with the Rockets, while Zubac has quietly evolved into a more complete big man. Zubac doesn’t rely solely on alley-oops — he can score in the post and finish plays on his own, giving Harden more tactical flexibility. Unlike Capela, Zubac can create scoring opportunities without being spoon-fed every time.
Zubac is also built for playoff basketball — his physicality and footwork make him a valuable asset in the paint. Even if George leaves, the Clippers still have a path to contention, thanks to the roster flexibility they have this offseason. For example, they could offload P.J. Tucker’s expiring deal and sign Chris Paul as a backup to Harden.
At the power forward position, Bangladesh Cricket suggests a package of Bones Hyland, Tucker, and a first-round pick could land the Clippers a versatile stretch-four who can protect the rim — the perfect complement to the core. The ideal lineup would then be Harden, DeRozan, Kawhi Leonard, a 3-and-D power forward, and Zubac.
Given the current situation, retaining Harden and Zubac should take precedence over chasing another max deal for George. If the Clippers can land someone like P.J. Washington at the four, they could essentially recreate the peak-era Rockets — but stronger, deeper, and more balanced.