Through numerous seasons with the LA Clippers, two-way phenom Paul George found a system that operated through him. Former head coach Doc Rivers and current head coach Tyronn Lue drew up plays and ran a scheme that allowed George to flourish with and without the ball.
As a result, George remained amongst the league’s best in various categories despite age and injury concerns. The Fresno State product notched three all-star appearances and an All-NBA selection since joining the Clippers via trade in 2019.
During last season's extension talks, George and the Clippers’ front office could not reach an agreement, leading George to opt out of his $48.8 million contract and enter free agency.
In less than a week, George signed a four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Initially, this seemed like the best of both worlds for the nine-time all-star, as he was still able to compete for a title on the contract he wished for. However, 28 games into the season, the grass does not appear greener on the other side. George is having the worst season of his career, and Clipper fans could have predicted this from a mile away.
The front office observed patterns in each season Paul George suited up for the LA Clippers.
Although Paul George attained numerous records with the LA Clippers, he entered shooting slumps nearly every season, leaving a limited impact on the floor. These factors tarnished the Clippers near the playoffs and eventually made winning a challenge when the lights turned bright.
All things considered, the front office held good reason for avoiding George’s high demand.
To start his career with the Philadelphia 76ers, George hyperextended his knee, halting his debut for multiple weeks. Once he returned, the veteran wing never found a strong groove.
In 17 games, George is averaging 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists on a career-low true-shooting percentage of 52.5. These numbers, primarily the efficiencies, are on cue with what Clipper fans have witnessed over the years.
Moreover, George turns 35 years old in May. Executive Lawrence Frank made a wise decision by not agreeing to an extension, as he understood the effects of age and injury on the former MVP finalist.
That said, Clipper fans are privileged to watch George’s situation with Philadelphia unfold from a distance. There were numerous reasons why Frank did not budge, and the 76ers are witnessing why.