Clippers sign George to multiyear contract extension
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Paul George wants to retire with the Los Angeles Clippers, and he took a step in that direction by signing a multiyear contract extension Thursday.
The six-time All-star could have become a free agent after the upcoming season. Instead, the team locked down his services, ensuring George will remain not far from where he grew up in Palmdale.
“This is a childhood dream being fulfilled. It’s just priceless, regardless of what this deal was for,” he said on a video call. “Being in front of my family and my friends and leaving my mark on a place I grew up.”
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but ESPN reported George’s contract was extended for an additional four years at $190 million, in addition to the $35.4 million guaranteed him for the 2020-21 season. George’s player option for the 202122 season will be replaced with the four-year extension, which includes a new player option for the 202425 season.
George averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and shot a careerhigh 41% from 3-point range in his first season with the Clippers. It ended it disappointment, however, with the team blowing a 3-1 lead against Denver and losing in the second round of the playoffs.
The early exit, George said, only served to motivate him for the season that begins Dec. 22, when he and Kawhi Leonard will be playing for new coach Tyronn Lue.
“I owe them a trophy. That’s what I owe the organization,” George said. “My commitment and job is to try to bring a title here.”
George’s acquisition from Oklahoma City in July 2019 paved the way for Leonard to join the team as a free agent, giving the Clippers a pair of star players to build around in pursuit of the franchise’s first NBA championship.