Major Paul George to New York Knicks Update Before NBA Free Agency

The New York Knicks could possibly trade for LA Clippers star Paul George
Dec 16, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George (13) reacts after center Ivica Zubac (40) dunks for the basket against the New York Knicks during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George (13) reacts after center Ivica Zubac (40) dunks for the basket against the New York Knicks during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

As NBA free agency quickly approaches, LA Clippers star Paul George remains without an extension. Over the last several days, numerous reports have suggested George could opt into his contract with the Clippers and pursue a trade if he prefers to land elsewhere.

In a recent report via his Substack, NBA insider Marc Stein wrote, "More sources than not we've consulted believe George's preference, as a proud Southern California native, continues to be re-signing with the Clippers, but the incumbent team's apparent reluctance to extend George a longer or richer deal than Kawhi Leonard's recent three-year contract extension in the $150 million range has put George's future in legitimate flux."

With George seeking a contract the Clippers are seemingly not offering, teams around the league could prepare for an opt-in and trade scenario - including the New York Knicks.

"Another trusted source has advised me to keep the Knicks on the list as a potential trade suitor for George if the All-NBA swingman indeed opts into the final season of his current contract at $48.8 million," Stein added. "That step would position George to push for a trade to another team."

New York is always considered in play for available stars, and while they have had their reservations about George in the past, perhaps this is a scenario they would consider dealing for him.

Related Articles

Philadelphia 76ers Star Reveals Honest Feelings on James Harden

Exclusive: Russell Westbrook Opens Up About Role With Clippers

James Harden Opens Up About Playing for Clippers After Rough Few Years


Published
Joey Linn

JOEY LINN

Joey Linn is a credentialed writer covering the NBA for Sports Illustrated's FanNation. Covering the LA Clippers independently in 2018, then for Fansided and 213Hoops from 2019-2021, Joey joined Sports Illustrated's FanNation to cover the Clippers after the 2020-21 season. Graduating from Biola University in 2022 with a Communication Studies degree, Joey served as Biola's play-by-play announcer for their basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer teams during his time in school. Joey's work on Biola's broadcasts, combined with his excellence in the classroom, earned him the Outstanding Communication Studies Student of the year award in 2022. Joey covers the NBA full-time across multiple platforms, primarily serving as a credentialed Clippers beat writer.