Since All-Star forward Paul George informed the Indiana Pacers that he would enter free agency next summer, there has been an increased push by the Los Angeles Lakers to acquire him this offseason.
However, it appears things have hit a wall with Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders reporting that the discussion between the Lakers and Pacers centered around George has come to halt over the last several days.
Last I heard talks with Lakers died off two days before the draft. Pacers not eager to help Lakers land PG unless it favors them. https://t.co/HrdV0E1gm5
— Steve Kyler (@stevekylerNBA) June 26, 2017
It had been reported that the Lakers had offered the Pacers a deal for George with the 27th and 28th overall pick in this year's draft along with either Jordan Clarkson or Julius Randle, but things haven't progressed further than that. Los Angeles has used those picks in the draft to add more young talent to the roster, meanwhile. Indiana has again talked with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers about George.
With the Cavaliers and Celtics re-entering the picture, it could make for a stronger push from the Lakers given the possibility that George could stay long term with either team if he is traded. That said, the Lakers don't have the leverage of draft picks and are unwilling to move second-year forward Brandon Ingram in any deal.
Things may once again heat up when the free agency period begins next month with the fate of many of the top available players dictating what corresponding moves will be made by teams around the league.
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