The Golden State Warriors are pretty much set for the 2023-24 NBA season. The biggest move they made this offseason was trading Jordan Poole for Chris Paul.
The Dubs are undoubtedly in win-now mode, with their core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green not getting any younger. Keeping that in mind, Bleacher Report suggested a blockbuster trade for the Warriors to land Paul George.
Golden State Warriors Receive: Paul George
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Chris Paul, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Top-10 Protected First-Round Picks In 2026 And 2028
“Assuming George would be more than a rental, the Dubs can easily justify giving up two of their only remaining young pieces and picks along with Paul,” Bleacher Report’s NBA staff explained. “Though CP3 should curb the turnover issues that have plagued Golden State, it’s up for debate whether he makes sense in the closing lineup. No such uncertainty would exist with George, who’d slot in next to Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Draymond Green in what would easily be the league’s most dangerous five-man unit.”
Paul George averaged 23.8 PPG, 6.1 RPG, and 5.1 APG in the 2022-23 NBA season. George’s numbers are great, but his health has always been a huge concern. Last season, he played just 56 games and missed the playoffs. Despite that, the Clippers could be reluctant to let go of their star to their conference rivals.
“Of course, the Clippers’ willingness to consider such a deal would depend on their own intel and feelings on George’s next contract,” B/R added. “If they’re not keen on spending big to keep him, it would make sense to flip him for the cap relief Paul’s non-guaranteed 2024-25 salary brings, plus all the other assets Golden State is shoving across the table.”
To be honest, the likeness of this trade are pretty low. After all, Chris Paul is known to be a phenomenal facilitator, albeit being in the twilight years of his career. He finished last season with 13.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG, and 8.9 APG. The Dubs should at least give a shot to CP3 alongside Curry, Thompson, and Green.
Is Paul George Available For Trade?
Paul George recently turned 33 years old and is not getting any younger. His time with the Clippers has been plagued with injuries, as he is yet to play more than 56 games in any of the last four seasons.
Keeping that in mind, it was no surprise when reports emerged that the Clippers made George available for trade talks this offseason. However, George remains on the Clippers roster for now.
The Knicks tried to trade for the veteran forward, but the Clippers’ asking price was simply too much for the organization. George is entering the third year of his current contract and will earn $45.6 million this season.
If he fails to stay healthy this season, the Clippers will most likely trade him. After all, it would be better than letting walking George for free in 2024 if he opts out of his $48.7 million player option for the final year.