LA Clippers President Gets Honest About Paul George Amid Trade Rumors

The LA Clippers continue to state they want Paul George back

Nov 14, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; LA Clippers forward Paul George (13) reacts during in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports | Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

LA Clippers star Paul George has two days to make a decision on his $48.8M player option for next season. Per several reports, the possibility of George opting into his contract and pursuing a trade elsewhere is increasingly likely. Speaking with reporters following the conclusion of the 2024 NBA Draft, Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank was asked about George.

"We had ongoing conversations with Paul and Aaron Mintz, his agent. We love Paul. We very much want to retain Paul," Frank said. "But we also very much understand and respect the fact that this is a business and players have a finite amount of time to be able to not just make the most amount of money, but to be able to pursue whatever they want."

Lawrence Frank says the Clippers want to retain Paul George, but understand this is a business and he has a decision to make.

Here’s his full answer: pic.twitter.com/NYPgwqOdxa

— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) June 27, 2024

Frank added, "We hope Paul [George’s] decision is to be here. He’s been awesome, he’s been an All-Star three out of the five years, he’s one of the best two-way players in the league, he’s a terrific person, has a great family, so we hope he’s here. But also, respect the fact that if he chooses to opt out, that that’s his choice. He’s earned it and we will see how things play out."

Seeming to suggest that George is going to explore all options that allow him to maximize his potential earnings, Frank expressed a level of respect for this process while maintaining the organization's desire to retain the nine-time All-Star.

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