Paul George contract: Clippers struggle to reach agreement / News - Basketnews.com

Los Angeles Clippers and Paul George are at a contract stalemate as negotiations for a max deal have faltered, potentially leading the star to explore free agency.

Credit: AP/Scanpix Credit AP/Scanpix

In the not-so-distant past, it seemed like a sure bet that Paul George would stay put with the Los Angeles Clippers. Fast forward to today, and the narrative has shifted. Now, there's a growing sense that George might explore his options in free agency.

3-pointers this season

38%12,6Points made:12,6Accuracy:38,1%Place in standings:17Record max:21Record min:6Most made 3FGs:Paul GeorgeTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

George is eyeing a max contract, but the Clippers appear hesitant to meet his demands. As a result, negotiations have hit a roadblock, leaving both parties at a stalemate.

"This Clippers team fully intends to keep this group together, they want to bring back Paul George as a free agent or give him an extension, but they have not been able to reach an agreement with George," The Athletic's Shams Charania said. "They've made multiple contract offers below the max. They have not been able to reach a deal, so they're going to keep trying. We'll see if he tests free agency."

Rumors have swirled around potential suitors like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Orlando Magic, both of whom could be poised to make a max contract pitch to George if he decides to decline his $48.8 million player option for the 2024-25 season.

With a June 30th deadline looming, the Clippers have a limited window to sway George's decision.

Despite his tenure with the Los Angeles franchise spanning five seasons, George's future hangs in the balance. And his recent playoff performance was marked by his lowest scoring output since 2013, averaging 19.5 points against the Dallas Mavericks.

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