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[Saba Sports News] Paul George’s list of admirers keeps growing.
Veteran NBA reporter Marc Stein wrote on his Substack that the Orlando Magic are emerging as potential suitors for LA Clippers star George. Stein also mentioned the Magic’s interest in Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson.
The nine-time All-Star George can enter free agency this offseason by declining his $48.8 million player option with the Clippers. While the Clippers can still offer him an extension this month, the prolonged negotiations suggest George might be considering leaving L.A. Currently, attention is focused on one main outside suitor for George.
The young Magic, who made the playoffs this year and won their division with a 47-35 record, could make a compelling case. With up-and-coming forwards Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner shouldering much of the offensive load, George could thrive in a secondary scorer role. His defense and three-point shooting would also fill key gaps for the Magic, one of the NBA’s most cap-space-rich teams.
Although George struggled in Orlando during the 2020 bubble, that was likely due to the bubble environment rather than Orlando itself. If he seeks a lucrative deal and a chance to compete on an ascendant team, the Magic could be an ideal fit.