The Philadelphia 76ers are going to be proactive in adding another star to the mix to go with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey this coming summer.
Philadelphia is coming off a disappointing first-round exit in the NBA Playoffs and will have money to add one of the biggest names set to hit the open market.
Front office head Daryl Morey and Co. continue to be linked to Los Angeles Clippers star wing Paul George. He has a $48.79 million player option for next season, one that the nine-time All-Star will undoubtedly decline in order to receive that final long-term contract of his career.
We’re now hearing more on Philadelphia’s potential pursuit of George. According to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, the 76ers are confident they’ll be able to pry George away from Los Angeles in NBA free agency.
“Well, the Sixers think there’s a real chance they end up with Paul George,” O’Connor reported. “From my understanding, talking with people around the league, they think there’s a real chance he ends up leaving. No guarantees, but there’s a chance of it.”
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Philadelphia 76ers have the money to sign Paul George outright
Unlike other teams looking to add big-time players this offseason, Philadelphia wouldn’t have to work out a sign-and-trade for George.
According to Spotrac, the 76ers are expected to have $55.5 million to spend under the 2024-25 NBA salary cap. The team has to re-sign the aforementioned Maxey. But that wouldn’t prevent Philadelphia from offering George the max.
The 34-year-old forward averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists on 47% shooting for Los Angeles this past regular season.
The 76ers are going to be in the market for a wing this summer. George obviously fits that bill in more ways than one.