The LA Clippers are eager to retain All-Star guard Paul George, but uncertainties loom as Saturday's deadline approaches for him to decide on his $48.8 million player option. Clippers' president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank has been in ongoing discussions with George and his agent, Aaron Mintz, regarding a potential extension, which could amount to up to four years and $221 million, but a deal has yet to materialize despite months of negotiations.
If George doesn't agree to an extension by the deadline, he retains the option to become a free agent or opt into his current deal. Even if he opts in, there's speculation he could seek a trade to another team. Nevertheless, the Clippers, who recently extended Kawhi Leonard, are hopeful George will opt to stay close to his family in Palmdale.
"We love Paul," Frank expressed following the Clippers' draft pick. "We very much want to retain Paul, but we also very much understand and respect the fact this is a business. We hope Paul's decision is to be here."
Amidst these discussions, the Clippers are also engaging with James Harden, a free agent, and his representatives, aiming to secure his continued presence on the team. Frank acknowledged the challenges posed by the new collective bargaining agreement for tax-paying teams, emphasizing the need for tough decisions to maintain roster sustainability and transactional flexibility.
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