After Paul George informed the Indiana Pacers that he intends to become a free agent next summer, the team is already preparing for his departure, especially when he made it known that he prefers to join the Los Angeles Lakers. Knowing that their chances of re-signing him are very slim, Larry Bird and company are now apparently looking for trade partners who are looking for a 1-year rental for the four-time All-Star forward.
That said, it can easily be thought that the Lakers will pursue him as early as this offseason, which would allow him to experience what it’s like to play for his hometown team. However, as of now, that’s not the case, as the team has not shown interest in adding him to their fold this coming season, and are being patient in waiting for him to become an unrestricted free agent in 2018.
Sources: Indiana's Kevin Pritchard engaging teams on trading Paul George, but so far, not Lakers. There's a rental market, but how robust? https://t.co/oM9XrATMr9
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 18, 2017
Although they still have a small chance of having George stay with them beyond this coming season, the Pacers understand that they will be taking a huge risk by not trading him now. They will now try their best to get something in return for their franchise player, and finding a team willing to add him as a rental player will do that for them.
Should they fail to find a trade partner this summer, the Pacers can opt to add more talent through free agency and convince George to stay and compete for the title. If they’ll be able to make a deep playoff run, it may entice George to stay and build on the momentum they’ll have by then. It may appear highly unlikely for now, but stranger things have happened in the league in the past, and the Indianapolis faithful are hopeful they can compete with the Cavs and Celtics in the East.
Follow Us
Subscribe