The Philadelphia 76ers’ interest in acquiring Paul George from the Los Angeles Clippers has been a significant topic of speculation in the NBA offseason. Reports suggested that George was the Sixers’ primary target if he decided to decline his $48.8 million player option and enter free agency. However, recent developments have cast doubt on this possibility.
Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer highlighted that George was “Plan A” for the Sixers, and there were expectations that the Sixers would be willing to offer George a four-year, $212.2 million contract should he become a free agent. Despite George being eligible for a contract extension all year, the Clippers have reportedly only offered a deal similar to the three-year, $150 million contract that Kawhi Leonard signed in January.
As of now, George and the Clippers have not reached a new agreement, and with just ten days left until the start of free agency, uncertainty looms. However, Shams Charania of The Athletic recently reported that the notion of the Sixers signing George might not materialize after all.
The Sixers have significant flexibility this offseason, with the potential to create up to $65 million in cap space. Joel Embiid is currently the only player on a guaranteed contract for the 2024-25 season. Additionally, the Sixers plan to keep Tyrese Maxey’s $13.0 million cap hold on their books while they handle their other free-agent activities. Once their primary free-agent business is concluded, the Sixers are expected to sign Maxey to a five-year, $204.5 million max contract.
Given these financial maneuvers and the latest reports, it appears that while the Sixers initially had strong interest in Paul George, their plans might be shifting, and they may explore other options in the upcoming free agency period.
With the Philadelphia 76ers seemingly moving on from the pursuit of Paul George, they will need to explore other targets to bolster their roster. Given the unlikelihood of acquiring players like Mikal Bridges, Lauri Markkanen, or LeBron James, the Sixers will need to identify more feasible options. Here are a few potential targets:
### 1. **Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards)**
Beal has been a perennial All-Star and one of the league’s most prolific scorers. If the Wizards decide to rebuild, Beal could become available, providing the Sixers with a dynamic scoring option alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
### 2. **OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors)**
Anunoby is a versatile forward known for his defensive prowess and three-point shooting. The Raptors might consider trading him if they look to retool their roster, and Anunoby could fit well with the Sixers’ need for a two-way player.
### 3. **Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls)**
LaVine is another high-scoring guard who could be available if the Bulls decide to make significant changes. His athleticism and scoring ability would complement the Sixers’ existing core, providing a strong offensive boost.
### 4. **Pascal Siakam (Toronto Raptors)**
Siakam is a versatile forward who can score, rebound, and defend at a high level. If the Raptors are open to trading him, he could be an excellent fit alongside Embiid, offering a combination of size, skill, and athleticism.
### 5. **Buddy Hield (Indiana Pacers)**
Hield is one of the league’s best three-point shooters and could provide the Sixers with much-needed perimeter shooting. He would be a valuable addition to their offense, spacing the floor for Embiid and Maxey.
### 6. **Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks)**
Middleton has a player option for the upcoming season and could become a free agent. If he declines his option, the Sixers could pursue him as a reliable scorer and defender with championship experience.
### 7. **DeMar DeRozan (Chicago Bulls)**
DeRozan is a proven scorer and playmaker. While not a three-point shooter, his mid-range game and ability to create shots for himself and others could be valuable for the Sixers’ offense.
### 8. **Jerami Grant (Portland Trail Blazers)**
Grant is a versatile forward who can defend multiple positions and score effectively. If the Blazers decide to make changes, Grant could be a target for the Sixers looking to improve their defense and add scoring depth.
### 9. **Tobias Harris (Re-sign)**
While not a new acquisition, retaining Harris could be a pragmatic move. Harris has been a consistent performer for the Sixers, and keeping him might provide continuity and stability.
### Trade and Free Agency Strategy
The Sixers have the cap space and assets to pursue various trade and free-agent targets. They can look to leverage their cap flexibility, draft picks, and players to construct a team capable of competing at the highest level. Balancing the need for immediate impact players with long-term sustainability will be crucial for their front office.
### Conclusion
While the pursuit of Paul George seems to be off the table, the Sixers still have several viable options to consider in improving their roster. Strategic moves in free agency and trades could position them as strong contenders in the upcoming season.
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