Kawhi Leonard breaks silence after Paul George’s departure from Clippers

Former Los Angeles Clippers superstar Paul George decided to jump ship this summer to join the Philadelphia 76ers, the Eastern Conference powerhouse, and superstar Joel Embiid. After five seasons in Los Angeles, George decided to take the next step in his career and in doing so left two-time NBA champion and two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard.

Learn more: Paul George to sign with 76ers on blockbuster free agent deal: report

On the court, the George and Leonard duo were among the best the NBA has ever seen. Unfortunately, lack of health was the main reason why they never reached the peak that many expected of them. Overall, their time together was a failure, and now they will begin new journeys without each other.

That’s the nature of the job, and Leonard understands it better than most. While training with Team USA for the upcoming Paris Olympics, Leonard was asked about George’s departure, and he was as direct and honest as he could be.

The Washington Post’s Ben Golliver shared Leonard’s response via Twitter/X.

George, 34, signed a four-year, $211.5 million contract extension with the Sixers. George will pair with players like Embiid and rising star Tyrese Maxey to form a new big three in Philadelphia.

It was entirely possible for the Clippers to keep George, but it became difficult given the amount of money he wanted and the new CBA. Reportedly, the Clippers wouldn’t agree to a three-year, $149.5 million contract extension like the one they gave Leonard. However, as George explained, he wanted a no-trade clause; the Clippers weren’t willing to do that, so he was determined to get a four-year deal and still get the money he deserved. The Clippers wouldn’t budge, which is why he’s a 76er today.

Although things seem difficult, and it’s hard not to assume they are, ESPN’s Ramon Shelburne reported that Leonard and George are still great friends and even spoke after George left for Philadelphia.

“George and Leonard have remained close throughout the season. At one point this week, George even called Leonard to tell him he was looking at other teams, sources said.”

George is coming off one of his best and most efficient seasons in his 14th career NBA career. He averaged 22.6 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals, while shooting 47.1 percent from the field and 41.3 percent from three-point range.

The Clippers have bounced back in free agency, signing a number of players to replace George. As for the 76ers, they will be looking to be among the best teams in the league and dethrone the Boston Celtics, who sit atop the table.

Learn more: Draymond Green reveals key details about Warriors’ failed pursuit of Paul George