- Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are unlikely to get a 4-year extension
- Both stars joined back in 2019 but they have struggled with injuries throughout
- Brian Windhorst says they may get one-year extensions
The Los Angeles Clippers shook the NBA landscape when they acquired Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in 2019, raising expectations to championship levels. However, injuries to their two superstars have hindered their postseason success.
As Leonard and George approach their mid-to-late 30s, the Clippers face a tough decision when it comes to extending their contracts. While both players remain top players when healthy, the team is wary of committing to long-term deals given their injury history.
Both Paul George and Kawhi Leonard could be free agents next season, but the Clippers have shown no signs of letting them go. But with both players near the end of their primes, the Clippers will vary in giving them long-term contracts, especially with their injury history. Even ESPN’s Brian Windhorst appears to think so:
“I don’t think there’s any chance that those guys get four-year extensions. They both can be free agents after next season because they have player options. There’s no chance that they’re getting extended four years. I would be stunned if they get extended four years. But that doesn’t mean that they can’t get extended, though. And that the Clippers won’t make an offer or even a multi-year offer.” (27:30)
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the team, the Clippers fans will definitely be excited about their team’s chances in the upcoming season. In their four years with the Clippers, George has averaged 23.2 PPG, 6.3 RPG and 4.9 APG. Meanwhile, Leonard has averaged 25.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 4.7 APG.
This Could Be The Clippers Last Chance At Winning An NBA Title
The Clippers find themselves in a tough position, balancing their desire to retain star talent and compete for championships. Offering multi-year extensions to players in their mid-to-late 30s can be a massive gamble, as injuries may continue to hamper their availability.
However, Leonard and George’s on-court impact when healthy cannot be understated, and the Clippers acknowledge their value to the team’s success. Former MVP James Harden is also linked with the Clippers and this trio of these superstars will be the favorites to win it all.
The Clippers have one of the deepest squads in the league, and they are stacked in every position. If Leonard and George are healthy, they are instant contenders. But more often than not, the two stars have been injured, especially in the postseason.
If the Clippers manage to land James Harden, this could be their best chance to win it all. While the Defending champs, the Denver Nuggets, will be favorites, the Clippers will have an excellent chance.
The front office will wait and see how this season pans out before deciding on extending Paul George and Kawhi Leonard’s contracts. Steve Ballmer and the front office will hope that these stars can help the franchise capture its elusive title.
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