Kawhi Leonard Discusses Futures of Paul George, James Harden With Clippers After New Contract

It appears his decision to re-sign had plenty to do with the futures of his two Clippers teammates.

It’s rare for Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard to dive too much publicly into the business side of basketball. But after signing a three-year, $153 million extension to remain with the franchise, he spoke to the media and addressed another topic that looms large in the minds of many.

What happens next with Paul George and James Harden?

In Leonard’s eyes, the belief is that both players are coming back. He cited that his extension gives the team a chance to sign the duo, which he told reporters.

• Nadkarni: Kawhi Leonard’s Extension With the Clippers Is a Win-Win

“I think for the most part, everybody is coming back, so with me signing the extension, it gives us a chance to sign both players,” Leonard told reporters, per Tomer Azarly of Clutch Points.

Leonard believes his new deal with the Clippers opens the door for Harden and George to sign as well / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Clippers star began the season eligible for a maximum four-year, $223 million extension, so he opted to leave some money on the table with his new deal. 

Leonard’s decision and preceding comments on the topic signal a major positive for the franchise and also insinuate that Harden’s fit with the team has truly worked out thus far, which has been apparent through their most recent success.

The Clippers have now won seven of eight games and 16 of their last 19 games, with the three stars Leonard, George and Harden seemingly putting the 0–5 start they endured in the rearview mirror entirely.

As for Leonard, he’s put together an impressive start to the 2023-24 season, averaging 24.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 51.8% from the field.