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[Saba Sports News] The Philadelphia 76ers may already be looking for a way out of the Paul George experiment after just one season.
During an appearance on the Locked On Jazz podcast, Andy Larsen of the Salt Lake Tribune revealed that the 76ers have reached out to teams about potentially trading down in the NBA Draft — and using George’s contract as part of the price.
One such scenario reportedly involved the Utah Jazz and the No. 5 overall pick.
“I do think it’s true that the Philadelphia 76ers are interested in trading down to No. 5, potentially, if they can get off the Paul George deal,” Larsen said, via Liberty Ballers’ Harrison Grimm. “I don’t think that makes sense for the Jazz given how long that contract is and how iffy Paul George was. I don’t think the Jazz are going to take that offer. But I do think that’s an offer that’s been presented.”
George still has $160 million remaining on his deal over the next three years, and the Sixers are reportedly questioning whether he’s worth that commitment.
His first season in Philadelphia was marred by injuries and inconsistency, and even when healthy, he wasn’t particularly effective. George averaged just 16.2 points per game in 41 appearances — his lowest full-season scoring output since his sophomore year in 2011–12.
Philadelphia had made George a top target in free agency, hoping he could be the missing piece alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. But after an underwhelming season and no real playoff push, the front office may be ready to move on.
Whether they’ll find a team willing to absorb George’s massive contract remains to be seen, but it’s clear the Sixers are testing the market.