Paul George 'never wanted to leave LA,' calls 1st Clippers offer 'disrespectful'

Paul George recently discussed his departure from the Los Angeles Clippers and the contract negotiations that preceded his decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers.

In a podcast titled "Podcast P with Paul George," published on Monday, George revealed that despite his initial desire to stay in Los Angeles, he found the Clippers' first contract offer in October to be "disrespectful." He described subsequent negotiations where the Clippers gradually increased their offers, culminating in a proposal of approximately $44-45 million annually.

Following Kawhi Leonard's extension in January, George indicated he was open to a similar deal. Negotiations paused during the All-Star break but resumed after the season, with the Clippers offering a contract similar to Leonard's three-year, $150 million extension. George proposed adding a no-trade clause, which the Clippers declined, leading him to counter with a max contract offer of four years and $212 million, also without a no-trade clause.

Ultimately, George signed a four-year, $212 million max contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The Clippers, in a statement preceding his departure, outlined their perspective on the breakdown in negotiations.

George's move to Philadelphia marks a significant NBA free agency transaction. He joins a 76ers lineup alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, positioning the team as contenders for an NBA championship.

With George's departure, the Clippers conclude an era marked by the acquisition of George and Leonard, yet falling short of championship expectations, with only one Western Conference finals appearance in five seasons.