Golden State Warriors trade for Paul George
Here we go, this is the big one we’ve all been waiting for. While Kawhi Leonard to Golden State rumors have been gaining traction as of late, I think it’s more realistic the Dubs swing big for Paul George in a trade.
Let’s start with why the LA Clippers would consider trading PG13 in the first place. It comes down to two possibilities: Either Kawhi leaves and forces the Clips into blowing it up for a rebuild — or the Clippers look to trade PG in order to stop Kawhi from leaving. The first scenario is the one Golden State should be hoping for.
The Warriors are one of the few teams in the NBA who can provide a jump start to the Clippers rebuild. Need a recent lottery pick to develop? Take James Wiseman. Traded all of your draft picks for a two-year failed experiment? Don’t worry, the Dubs (might) have two lottery picks this year, in addition to more picks the Clippers might ask for.
I hope I don’t need to spend much time explaining why George is a good fit for the Warriors. Sure, he’s been upset in the playoffs, but he is still a BIG time player who can play elite defense and score at will. Place him as the third option on the Dubs and it’s an easy path to success for both sides.
The last part of this trade is interesting as well, with the Dubs snatching up Rajon Rondo to complete the deal. Rondo has been hit or miss but his championship with the Los Angeles Lakers showed his value when he’s engaged. The Dubs could certainly take the risk here and add Rondo as a backup point guard for depth and veteran experience.