Around the NBA trade deadline, it seemed obvious that the Indiana Pacers were intently listening to offers fielded for their All-Star forward Paul George. And while the versatile forward wound up staying in Indianapolis, recent reports have come out that the Philadelphia 76ers made a truly tempting offer for George.
According to Liberty Ballers of SB Nation, the Philadelphia 76ers offered a package consisting of Robert Covington, a choice between Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafor, and at least two first round picks. The Indiana Pacers wound up keeping Paul George, despite rumors that he would like to play for the Los Angeles Lakers. George also expressed frustration about the insistent trade rumors that surrounded him prior to the trade deadline.
As noted by SB Nation, other teams involved in discussions for the potential deal for Paul George included the Boston Celtics, who found too steep the Indiana Pacers’ asking price of three out of the four of the Celtics’ young core (Jaylen Brown, Avery Bradley, Marcus Smart and Jae Crowder), as well as the rights to the Brooklyn Nets’ first round pick in the upcoming draft. Looking back, it’s hard to imagine the Pacers getting a better deal than what the 76ers offered.
Meanwhile, Fansided came out with a report pointing out the possibility of Paul George teaming up with Gordon Hayward of the Utah Jazz. George has said that he would love to play with the Jazz swingman, and there will always be the allure of Hayward wanting to play in his hometown of Indiana. Hayward is set to be a free agent this summer, and the Utah Jazz will be the team that can offer him the most money and the longest deal.
Amidst all the rumors, the Indiana Pacers could potentially lose Paul George when he becomes a free agent in 2018. He has clearly expressed his desire to play for the Los Angeles Lakers. And with the future of the Pacers unclear, Indiana might have to act fast before they regret not pulling the trigger on the Philadelphia 76ers offer.
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