NBA rumors: It’s a big year ahead for the Los Angeles Clippers, particularly on the Kawhi Leonard and Paul George front. Thus far, this superstar pairing has not delivered the desired result for the Clippers since they linked up four years ago, and with both stars nearing the end of their respective contracts, this could very well be the final season of the Kawhi-PG era in LA.
NBA Rumors: Clippers in ‘No Rush’ to Extend Kawhi Leonard’s Contract
Both Leonard and George are under contract through 2025. However, both superstars have a player option for 2024-25, which means that they could actually opt out of their respective deals and become unrestricted free agents this summer.
According to league insider Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN, however, the Clippers do not seem to have any sense of urgency right now in terms of extending Kawhi Leonard’s deal.
“I hear it’s kind of quiet right now,” Youngmisuk said on a recent episode of The Lowe Post podcast with Zach Lowe (h/t RealGM). “There is no rush on an extension for Kawhi Leonard, and then Paul George will be eligible in September.”
Does this mean the Clippers are going to let Kawhi walk away next summer? Not necessarily. However, if they are unable to extend his deal soon, this is going to be a real possibility for them. The worst-case scenario for LA is if they lose Leonard (and Paul George) for nothing next offseason.
NBA Rumors: Are Bucks Taking Similar Approach With Giannis Antetokounmpo?
The Milwaukee Bucks are in a somewhat similar scenario with Giannis Antetokounmpo. The good news for them is that the former back-to-back MVP is locked up until 2026, which gives both camps ample time to iron out a new deal.
It is worth noting, however, that Antetokounmpo will be eligible for an extension in September. According to reports, teams from around the league are monitoring his current situation with the Bucks, and it’s possible that they make their move on Giannis if he doesn’t sign an extension this summer.
While the Clippers are taking a laid-back approach with Kawhi, it seems that the Bucks may not have that same luxury with their cornerstone superstar.
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