Los Angeles Clippers forward, Paul George, has been listed as the Sixers number one target this offseason. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of Paul George becoming a Sixer.
Pros
The Sixers need a wing and a player who can help the team thrive without Embiid. Paul George is both. One night he could play like an MVP, the next shine as a 3-and-D role player. George’s versatility is what the Sixers need.
He’s a tremendous scorer, facilitator, and defender, and his knockdown shooting ability is invaluable. Over the last ten seasons, George has made 39.2% of his threes on 7.8 shots a game. His three-point shooting ability makes George as much of a threat off the ball as he is on the ball. With that, George has earned a reputation as one of the NBA’s best wing defenders, making the All-Defensive Team four times. He would bolster the Sixers’ defense immensely.
George’s willingness to defer is an asset to the Sixers’ offense as well. He has a deep bag of pick-and-roll actions that could help him form a dominant two-man game with Embiid. And when Embiid is out, he could support Maxey by creating shots and stretching the floor.
In theory, Paul George is an ideal third star to play with Embiid and Maxey. He should be able to take a step back and play alongside them or take over the team when necessary. If the Sixers are focused on winning a championship next season, George is one of, if not the best player attainable this offseason who could fit the team well.
Cons
As seamless as the fit looks on paper though, there are some significant causes for concern when it comes to giving George a long-term contract. The first being whether he will actually solve the Sixers current problems for the future or create new ones down the line. In some perspective, it feels as though there could be another Harden or Harris situation if things go south with George. It’s not likely, but it’s been known to happen when signing an aging, former all-star.
Which leads to the next issue, his durability. George, who recently turned 34, has averaged 54 games per regular season the last four seasons. Injuries have plagued him recently and pairing him with Embiid, who is also constantly injured, would not be a long-term solution to the lack of backup for Maxey. One could assume that’s not going to change as he gets into his late thirties.
George isn’t notorious for great playoff performances either. He’s known for shying away from the moment and being a part of multiple ugly playoff exits in recent years. That’s not something Sixers fans want to see after witnessing enough big name players disappoint in the playoffs year in and year out.
There’s also no guarantee that George becomes available. But if he does, the Sixers will have to offer him the most they possibly can to pry him away from the Clippers. Doing so would put a low budget on who the Sixers can fill out the rest of the roster with and rosters for years to come.
While the on-court fit of George next to Maxey and Embiid seems impeccable, it’s not that simple. There are massive risks that come with taking on any player of his caliber. But so far, it seems the Sixers’ front office is willing to take any risk to add a player who can take them to the top.
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