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By Ricardo Sandoval
Contributing Sports Writer
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Former Los Angeles Clipper superstar Paul George decided to jump ship this summer to join Eastern Conference powerhouse the Philadelphia 76ers and superstar Joel Embiid. After five seasons in Los Angeles, George decided to move on to the next chapter of his journey and, in the process, left two-time NBA champion and two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard.
Read More: Paul George To Sign With 76ers On Blockbuster Free Agent Deal: Report
When on the court, the duo of George and Leonard were among the best the NBA had seen. Unfortunately, not staying healthy was the main reason they never reached the pinnacle as many expected them to. Overall, their time together was a failure, and now they'll start new journeys without each other.
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That's the nature of the business, and Leonard understands that better than anyone. While training for the upcoming Paris Olympics with Team USA, Leonard was asked about George's departure, and he was as blunt and honest as possible.
Ben Golliver of the Washington Post shared Leonard's response via Twitter/X.
The 34-year-old George signed a four-year, $211.5 million max extension with the Sixers. George will be paired with the likes of Embiid and up-and-coming star Tyrese Maxey to form a new big three in Philadelphia.
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It was very possible for the Clippers to keep George, but it became challenging considering the amount he wanted and with the new CBA. The Clippers reportedly would only go as high as a three-year, $149.5 million extension, similar to the one they gave Leonard. However, as George has explained, he wanted a no-trade clause; the Clippers were unwilling to do that, so he was hellbent on receiving a four-year deal while also getting the money he deserved. The Clippers didn't want to budge, which is why he is a 76er today.
Although things appear to be rocky, and it's hard not to assume that, ESPN's Ramon Shelburne reported that Leonard and George are still great friends and even spoke to each other after George left for Philadelphia.
"George and Leonard remained close throughout the season. At one point this week, George even called Leonard to tell him he was looking at other teams, sources said."
George is coming off one of his best and most efficient seasons in his 14th NBA career. He averaged 22.6 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 47.1 percent from the field and 41.3 percent from three.
The Clippers have bounced back this free agency period, somewhat, signing many players to replace George. As for the 76ers, they'll look to be among the top teams in the league and dethrone the Boston Celtics, who sit at the mountaintop.
Read More: Draymond Green Reveals Huge Details on Warriors' Failed Paul George Pursuit
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