Paul George Joins 76ers on Four-Year, $212 Million Deal
In a major NBA offseason move, Paul George has agreed to a four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal, confirmed by multiple sources, was finalized early Monday morning.
He is a nine-time All-Star, leaves the Los Angeles Clippers to form a new star trio in Philadelphia alongside MVP Joel Embiid and rising star Tyrese Maxey.
His contract includes a player option for the final season in 2027-28. The 76ers’ front office, led by owner Josh Harris, president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, and general manager Elton Brand, played a crucial role in securing the deal.
Sixers legend Julius Erving and executive Peter Dinwiddie, a former associate of George from his Indiana Pacers days, also participated in the negotiations.
After unsuccessful negotiations with the Clippers, who offered a three-year deal, he opted for the 76ers’ four-year offer.
His departure from Los Angeles marks the end of a five-year tenure where he averaged 23 points, 6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Despite the Clippers’ efforts, they were unable to meet George’s contractual demands, leading to his move to Philadelphia.
The addition of George to the 76ers creates a powerful trio with Embiid and Maxey, expected to challenge the reigning NBA champion Boston Celtics.
This move is part of a broader strategy by the 76ers to build a championship-contending team. Alongside George, Philadelphia has signed shooting guard Kelly Oubre Jr., veteran guard Eric Gordon, and center Andre Drummond, strengthening their roster depth.
Philadelphia’s last NBA title was in 1983, and they haven’t advanced past the Eastern Conference semifinals since 2001.
The new star trio aims to change that narrative. His elite perimeter defense and scoring ability, combined with Embiid’s dominance in the paint and Maxey’s explosiveness, make the 76ers a formidable contender in the East.
While George and Embiid both have histories of injuries, their potential impact on the court is undeniable. George played 76 games last season, the most since 2018-19, showing his capability to stay healthy. The 76ers, with roughly $65 million in salary cap space, had little choice but to pursue a star like George to remain competitive.