The LA Clippers searched for different potential partners for Kawhi Leonard before sealing the deal to sign him. They analyzed and studied every roster and star player in the league, hoping to find the best potential fit to play next to Leonard, both on the court and personality-wise.
According to The Athletic, the Clippers inquired about Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal and Houston Rockets star James Harden before landing on Paul George, as neither of the two aforementioned were available for trade.
Leonard also had interest to pair himself among another fierce competitor in Jimmy Butler, but the two-way standout was already eyeing the Miami Heat. Leonard also called Kevin Durant about teaming up in Los Angeles, but Durant already had plans to team up with Kyrie Irving with the Brooklyn Nets.
At this point, Paul George requested a trade from the Oklahoma City Thunder, which only opened the doors for this superstar pairing in their hometown of Los Angeles.
George and Leonard wouldn't join the Los Angeles Lakers in the quest of a superteam, but rather duel them as their own duo across the hall, setting up an immediate rivalry in the same building and a battle NBA fans will be witness to in four regular-season meetings in 2019-20, along with the potential of meeting in the playoffs.
The two-way stars complement each other swiftly on paper — both reserved but killers on the court — boasting a lot of similar traits and a passion for defense that is hard to find in today's NBA.
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