Paul George Joins the Philadelphia 76ers
Contract Details
Free agent forward Paul George has signed a four-year, $212 million maximum contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal includes a player option for the final season in 2027-28.
Return to the Eastern Conference
This agreement marks George’s return to the Eastern Conference, where he will team up with MVP center Joel Embiid and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey to challenge the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics.
Negotiation Meetings
George and his agent, Aaron Mintz of CAA, met in Los Angeles with a 76ers delegation including owner Josh Harris, president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, general manager Elton Brand, and Sixers legend Julius Erving. The meeting was facilitated by Peter Dinwiddie, a longtime associate of George from their days with the Indiana Pacers.
Departure from the LA Clippers
This move follows months of stalled negotiations between George and the LA Clippers regarding a new contract that would have kept him in Southern California.
Formidable Trio
With Embiid, Maxey, and George all having been All-Stars last season, the 76ers now boast one of the most impressive “big threes” in recent NBA history. Maxey is an explosive lead guard, George is an elite two-way wing player, and Embiid is a dominant big man.
Paul George’s Career Stats
Paul George, a 34-year-old nine-time All-Star, spent the last five seasons with the Clippers, averaging 23 points, 6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals across 263 regular-season games. Now, he aims to achieve the ultimate goal of winning an NBA championship alongside Embiid and Maxey in Philadelphia.
Additional Signings
In another significant development for the 76ers, the team also agreed to a two-year, $16.3 million deal with shooting guard Kelly Oubre Jr. Additionally, veteran guard Eric Gordon and center Andre Drummond have reached agreements with the team, further strengthening the roster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: Paul George brings versatility and experience to the 76ers’ lineup. As an elite two-way wing, he complements Joel Embiid’s dominance in the paint and Tyrese Maxey’s explosiveness in the backcourt. His scoring ability and defensive prowess make him a valuable addition, enhancing the team’s overall performance.
A: Kelly Oubre Jr. adds depth to the 76ers’ roster as a dynamic shooting guard with the ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. His athleticism and scoring versatility will provide crucial support off the bench, helping to maintain a high level of play when the starters rest.
A: Eric Gordon brings veteran leadership and reliable scoring from the perimeter, while Andre Drummond provides size, rebounding, and interior defense. Together, they strengthen the bench and offer valuable depth, making the 76ers more competitive in the playoffs.
A: With the acquisition of Paul George and the recent signings of Kelly Oubre Jr., Eric Gordon, and Andre Drummond, the 76ers have significantly bolstered their roster. This enhances their chances against top contenders in the Eastern Conference, such as the Boston Celtics, and improves their prospects of winning an NBA championship.