George, Leonard sign deals
Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are now officially with the Los Angeles Clippers, moves that bring both of them back to their native Southern California.
It might not be forever: Both can become free agents in only two years.
The Clippers completed their blockbuster trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, acquiring George for guard Shai GilgeousAlexander, forward Danilo Gallinari and five first-round draft picks — along with the chance to swap draft places in two other years.
“Paul George is one of the greatest two-way players in our game,” Clippers President Lawrence Frank said. “He is both an elite scorer and a relentless defender whose versatility elevates any team. When you have the opportunity to acquire a contributor of his caliber, you do what it takes to bring him home.”
George can become a free agent again in 2021 if he chooses to exercise that option, and Leonard will be in the same situation as well. A person with knowledge of the situation said that the deal Leonard signed Wednesday is a threeyear max that could be worth nearly $110 million, though the third season is at Leonard’s option. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Clippers did not release contract terms.
The Athletic first reported the three-year term and option provision in Leonard’s deal. When Leonard decided that he was leaving Toronto for the Clippers last week, he and the team had talked about a four-year max worth $141 million — but this move, which would make Leonard a free agent after his 10th season, gives him the maximum amounts of flexibility and future earning power.
Timberwolves: Minnesota ● declined to match an offer sheet to guard Tyus Jones, clearing the way for him to join the Memphis Grizzlies. ESPN had reported that Jones and the Grizzlies had agreed to a three-year offer sheet worth $28 million. The 23-year-old Jones averaged 6.9 points, 4.8 assists and 22.9 minutes for the Timberwolves this past season. The 6-foot-2 Jones had spent his entire fouryear NBA career with the Timberwolves.