Paul George makes a decision on his future leading into NBA free agency

Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George waited until the final hours possible to make a decision on his player option.

The veteran forward is reportedly declining the option to explore alternate destinations in free agency. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski first reported the news, writing, “BREAKING: Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George is declining his $48.7M option and entering free agency, sources tell ESPN. He’s planning to set meetings with cap space teams and the Clippers beginning Sunday night. An opt-in/trade scenario is now gone.”

While George is expected to meet with the Clippers about a potential extension, there are serious contenders who could pry him away from LA. The Philadelphia 76ers are undoubtedly the top competition, as their plethora of cap space blended with the star talent of Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey is enticing. Signing George could vault the Sixers among the biggest threats in the Eastern Conference alongside the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.