SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 4: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors and Head Coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers during the Western Conference Semi Finals of the 2023 NBA Playoffs on May 4, 2023 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
Paul George acknowledged that he was considering an opt-in and trade to the Golden State Warriors, even though he was excited about joining the Philadelphia 76ers and wearing number 8 in honor of the late Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant. After George’s departure, the Clippers released a statement in which they admitted to having “explored an opt-in and trade scenario, but it would have left us in a similar position under the new CBA, with very little asset value to justify the restrictions.”
Golden State’s hopes of signing George were dashed when he chose to opt out of his contract, but George expressed interest in playing alongside four-time champions Draymond Green and Stephen Curry.
Regarding a potential trade to Golden State, George stated on his podcast, “That was a real thing that was close to being done.” It was a win-win situation because it was quite exciting and still offered the chance to remain on the West Coast and near to home. Joel (Embiid) is a unicorn, in my opinion, and Steph Curry is a unicorn. Thus, it was somewhat advantageous to be in the thick of things, but in the end, the deal fell through. It was close, but I believe the Clippers didn’t want a certain trade that the Warriors were prepared to make. It was awesome, dude.”
Many people have asked me why the Kings would sign and trade DeMar DeRozan when it doesn’t elevate them to the playoffs. “What does this deal actually accomplish?” one may wonder.
