Paul George’s exit to the Philadelphia 76ers closes another chapter in Los Angeles Clippers history in which they came up empty handed. Losing PG is a major blow for the Clippers, at a time where they will be opening their new Intuit Dome for next season; once again with the ambitions to “take over” Los Angeles. With that story complete, it’s safe to say the Thunder won that trade in the Summer of 2019.
The blockbuster trade involved 2024 MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and a treasure trove of first-round picks that have set the foundation for OKC’s recent success and their future. The Clippers acquired George from the OKC with championship expectations after also signing Kawhi Leonard.
The 2019 Blockbuster Trade
In the summer of 2019, the Clippers put together a monster trade package that was suppose to change the landscape of the NBA. The Clippers acquired Paul George, paying a steep price to guarantee that they landed Kawhi. In fact, it is arguably one of the steepest in modern NBA history. This trade was not only significant due to the caliber of talent involved, but also for the sheer volume of assets exchanged.
Kawhi was fresh off his Toronto Rapters championship, and many thought that it was their time for the Clippers to take over the Staples Center. Five years later, they are run out of Downtown LA, and the major losers of this deal. The Thunder have put on a rebuilding masterclass, armed with a treasure trove of draft picks with still room to grow; All while becoming the youngest team to have won the Western Conference in the regular season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
If anyone acquired a superstar in this deal it was the Thunder. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable, earning his first All-Star selection in the 2022-23 season, finishing second in MVP voting and being named First Team All-NBA. His performance has solidified his status as the face of the franchise and a full-fledged superstar.
The Paul George trade will go down as the worst in NBA history
— Frank Michael Smith (@frankmikesmith) July 1, 2024
To make matters even worse...The Clippers got nothing for him
These are some other trades since 2010 that keep fans up at night ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/Fyglk74Cg4
Jeez…
— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) July 1, 2024
A reminder that in the trade for PG, the Clippers not only gave OKC Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but also the draft pick that became Jalen Williams.
That’s the 2 leading scorers in the #1 seed in the West.
And LA still owes two more first-round picks and a swap! https://t.co/LYWIRBhEpl pic.twitter.com/opJz76F1o1
Utilization of Draft Picks
The Thunder’s strategic use of the draft picks obtained in the trade has been instrumental in reinforcing their roster. Notably, the 2022 first-round pick from the Clippers was used to select Jalen Williams from Santa Clara, who quickly became a key player int heir starting lineup, finishing on the All-Rookie 1st Team in 2023 and averaging 19.1 points this season.
The Thunder’s management of future draft assets continues to have a promising outlook. They still retain several valuable picks, including an unprotected 2024 first-round pick from the Clippers and the right to swap picks in 2025.
How It All Went Wrong?
Despite high expectations, the Clippers’ journey with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard was fraught with challenges, particularly in terms of player health and playoff performance. These two couldn’t get on the court at the same time. It felt like when one was in the lineup, one was out.
Load management, and yet not managing to stay healthy. Kawhi Leonard’s struggle with injuries was a critical setback for the Clippers. Paul George also piled up his injury history, including shoulders, knees, and elbows. He was only missing the “toes” during his time in LA. Without Kawhi and PG finding a rare time they were both 100%, they never really had a chance.
Kawhi Leonard and Paul George era in Los Angeles:
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) July 1, 2024
2020: 2nd round exit
2021: WCF loss
2022: missed playoffs
2023: first round exit
2024: first round exit
The duo that was supposed to deliver the Clippers their first championship breaks up after three series wins in five years. pic.twitter.com/RV9NeFzC1k
Kawhi Leonard and Paul George will finish their 5 years together having played just 26 playoff games together.
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) July 1, 2024
They finish with a 137-70 record when playing together, a .662 winning percentage.
They finished 124-57 (.685) together in the regular season and 13-13 (.500)…
Contract Negotiation Issues
The contract negotiations highlighted a strategic shift in the Clippers’ approach, influenced by the new tax apron rules set by the NBA. The Clippers, who had previously shown little hesitation in spending to build a contender, faced new constraints that affected their ability to secure George’s extension. The negotiations stalled, despite the Clippers’ attempt to align George’s contract with Kawhi Leonard’s recent deal, which was structured to leave room for flexibility under the salary cap. The inability to bridge the financial expectations led to George exploring options that culminated in his significant contract with the 76ers, which includes a player option in the final season.
Paul George Philly Contract Details
Since the Clippers were not willing to commit long-term, he signed his four-year, $212 million contract in Philly. Unbelievable work by his agent, as George will be 38 years old when this deal expires. Philly understands how much talent they have, and decided to go all in for their next playoff bid.
Effect on Upcoming NBA Seasons
George’s move to the 76ers is poised to reshape the competitive landscape in the Eastern Conference. With the 76ers already positioned as a strong team. If healthy, this addition of Paul George can make them a serious threat to win the East. The 76ers strategically cleared cap space and managed contracts to accommodate such a high-caliber addition. This trio of Embiid, Maxry, and George underlines the 76ers’ ambitions to not only dominate the Eastern Conference, but also make a run at an NBA title. The bar might have to start at getting past the second round, something Embiid has still yet to accomplish. This may be the last all in shove for Embiid by the Sixers. If they are unable to get it done with this roster, some major changes may be made in Philadelphia.
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