Denver Nuggets Opt-Out of Paul George Trade Deal, Clippers Asking Price Too High

Denver Nuggets Express Interest in Paul George

The Denver Nuggets were reportedly eyeing an opt-in-and-trade deal for LA Clippers star Paul George. However, they backed out when the Clippers' asking price was considered too high. The Clippers requested Michael Porter Jr., Zeke Nnaji, and a significant amount of draft picks in exchange for George, which the Nuggets were not willing to meet due to their high value for draft picks.

Interest from Other Teams and George's Performance

Apart from the Nuggets, the Golden State Warriors are also rumored to be interested in an opt-in-and-trade scenario for George. The Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic are also potential suitors if George decides to opt out of his contract. George, known as one of the NBA's most complete players, is coming off his ninth career All-Star selection and had an impressive season averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.

George's health has been a concern in the past, but he managed to appear in 74 games last season, which is his highest since the 2018-19 season. This could be a factor for teams looking to acquire him. The Clippers are reportedly hesitant to offer him a four-year max extension due to his injury history, preferring a shorter deal similar to Kawhi Leonard's three-year, $150 million extension.

Clippers' Hesitation and George's Contract Situation

The Clippers are aiming to get under the NBA's second apron by the 2025-26 season, which is why they are cautious about offering George a long-term deal. However, George is looking to maximize his earning potential as per the league's collective bargaining agreement. Signing George to a four-year deal would be a significant risk for any team, especially considering his injury history and the assets required in a potential trade deal.

In conclusion, the Denver Nuggets' interest in Paul George highlights the ongoing trade talks in the NBA involving top players like George. The Clippers' asking price and George's contract situation add complexity to the negotiations, making it a challenging decision for both the teams involved and George himself. The outcome of these discussions could have a significant impact on the Western Conference landscape and the NBA as a whole.