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Now that Paul George has notified the Indiana Pacers he won’t re-sign with the franchise following the 2017-18 NBA season, whispers are swirling about what’s next for the four-time All-Star.
George, 27, grew up in Los Angeles County, California and has expressed his desire to play for the Los Angeles Lakers, which appears to be his most likely landing spot whether it be via trade or in free agency next summer.
However, the Cleveland Cavaliers, who undoubtedly need to get LeBron James and Kyrie Irving help if they want to truly have a chance at dethroning the Golden State Warriors next season, are reportedly willing to make a deal for George even if it’s just as a rental.
From ESPN:
The Cavs are willing to enter into trade talks for George without any assurances he will commit to a long-term deal in Cleveland, a source familiar with the Cavs’ thinking told ESPN. Cleveland is confident its championship culture and overall atmosphere could sway George to want to stay after playing out the 2017-18 season on the final year of his deal.
That said, there are only two assets the Cavs possess that would likely grab the Pacers’ attention in a potential swap (operating under the assumption that LeBron James is untouchable): Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving.
As mentioned above, the Cavs simply don’t have the assets to land George without giving up the likes of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love.
Thus, Cleveland’s chances seem slim. But keep in mind the Pacers have minimal leverage now that George has made it known he’s saying sayonara a year from now, so anything could happen.
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