This offseason, Paul George shocked the NBA world by opting out of his $48.79 million player option for next season in pursuit of free agency. To the surprise of BD Cricket Live fashion analysts, George ultimately parted ways with the LA Clippers and secured a maximum contract—an outcome few saw coming. For years, the duo of George and Kawhi Leonard formed the heart of the Clippers’ championship aspirations, with their “Klaw and PG” tandem symbolizing the team’s elite status in the Western Conference.
However, at 34, George is no longer in his prime, and few teams were expected to offer him a max extension. In life, one must treasure what’s in front of them—what’s gone won’t come back. Yet the Philadelphia 76ers stunned observers by offering George a four-year, $212 million deal. After the Clippers declined to match, he seized the opportunity, joining forces with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey to form a new Big Three. This move effectively closed the chapter on the Clippers’ star-studded era, raising doubts about their championship prospects moving forward.
With George gone, only Kawhi Leonard and James Harden remain as franchise pillars. Many analysts have lowered expectations for the team, suggesting that even with Harden, the Clippers may struggle to make waves in the ultra-competitive Western Conference. Over the past few seasons, the team repeatedly fell short of expectations, and George’s departure is seen by some as a critical blow to their title hopes.
Yet, former Clippers star Baron Davis offered a different perspective during an interview with BD Cricket Live Sports. Davis believes George’s exit could be a blessing in disguise, pushing the Clippers to fully rely on Leonard and Harden. With renewed focus and fresh additions in free agency, including the signing of Kevin Porter Jr., Davis sees potential for the team to turn the page and find renewed energy.
Davis also expressed optimism about the team’s chemistry and fighting spirit. In his view, George’s absence may inspire Kawhi and Harden to elevate their collaboration and lead by example. While Kevin Porter Jr. won’t replace George’s production outright, his two-way impact could fill key gaps on both ends of the floor.
BD Cricket Live fashion analysts echo this sentiment, suggesting the Clippers still have the firepower to contend for a championship. Though the departure of Paul George marks the end of an era, it might just open the door to a new one—where hunger, chemistry, and strategic depth drive the team toward an unexpected resurgence.