Clippers’ George inks $190M deal THE QUOTE

Keeping an eye on the world of sports during the pandemic:

Paul George wants to retire with the 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, California.

“I want to retire a Clipper,” George said last week. “This is where my heart is and I’m happy.”

Terms of the deal weren’t 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 202021 season. George’s player option for the 2021-22 season will be replaced with the fouryear extension, which includes a new player option for the 2024-25 season.

He averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and shot a career-high 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 the Nuggets and losing in the second round of the playoffs.

George’s acquisition from the Thunder in July 2019 paved the way for Leonard to join the team as a free agent, giving the Clippers a pair of stars to build around in pursuit of the franchise’s first NBA championship.

“This is an important moment for our franchise and our fans, to secure a long-term commitment from one of the premier two-way players in the NBA,” said Lawrence Frank, the team’s president of basketball operations.

The team will turn its attention to re-signing Leonard.

George thanked owner Steve Ballmer, Frank, Lue and his teammates for believing in him.

“You really kind of just re-evaluate things, and it makes you really appreciate the health that you have and talking to your kids every day and to see their concern. ... Football, and how long I play football, didn’t really cross my mind.”

— Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who recently battled COVID-19

SOPHIA GERMER/AP