There are a number of dominos lined up for this year’s round of NBA free agency, including LeBron James’ free agency and Kawhi Leonard’s trade request, and the first to fall may just be Paul George. While the Spurs will take their time with trade offers and LeBron will take his time because he’s LeBron, George is already dropping hints as to his plans.
Right from the beginning of the second episode of the ESPN series following his free agency, George talks about the influence of Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers as he grew up in L.A. It’s not unexpected, but it sure is an interesting time to lean into the idea of home.
“When I first fell in love with the game and I’m outside playing in front of the house, I’m not picturing myself in an Indiana jersey or picturing myself in a Thunder jersey,” says George. “I picture myself in a Lakers jersey.”
Like, come on!
Also featured in the episode are Dwyane Wade, who lends his advice on navigating free agency as a superstar, and Thunder GM Sam Presti who described the processes behind trading for George last summer despite the flight risk. Notably, Presti recites A Tribe Called Quest to make his point: “Scared money don’t make none.”
Well, because the Thunder put themselves out there last year, they’ve been able to leave a strong impression on George. Though his interest in a homecoming has always been open knowledge, it seems like George will face a real decision between the Lakers and the Thunder. That decision could have powerful ramifications for LeBron and Kawhi, particularly if a possible team-up in Los Angeles ever comes to fruition.
We’re under 48 hours away from free agency. Things may just get wild.
