James Harden re-sign Clippers two-year deal, Paul George not return

Clippers lose George but secure Harden in a whirlwind NBA Free Agency day, ensuring their championship hopes remain alive in LA.

The Los Angeles Clippers have had a rollercoaster of a day in NBA Free agency, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement that comes with the offseason. The day kicked off with the surprising news that All-Star forward Paul George would be leaving the team to explore free agency, with rumors swirling that he would be joining the Philadelphia 76ers.

George, a nine-time NBA All-Star, was initially acquired by the Clippers in a blockbuster trade in 2019 that sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and five first-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The partnership between George and Kawhi Leonard was expected to elevate the Clippers to championship contention, but despite their talent, they only made it to the Western Conference Finals once in their five years together.

The Clippers were hoping to retain both George and James Harden as they gear up to debut a new arena in Inglewood, CA this fall. However, with George's departure confirmed, the team quickly shifted their focus to securing Harden's services. In a surprising turn of events, the Clippers were able to re-sign Harden to a lucrative two-year, $70 million deal within hours of George's announcement.

Harden's impact on the Clippers has been substantial since joining the team last October. He played a pivotal role in turning around the team's season from a shaky start to leading the Western Conference standings. Harden's contributions on the court, averaging 16.6 points and 8.5 assists per game, have been instrumental in the team's success.

The Clippers' president of basketball operations, Lawrence Frank, praised Harden's work ethic and commitment to the team, highlighting his dedication both on and off the court. Harden's return to his hometown of Los Angeles has been a source of joy for him, as he has found success and fulfillment in playing for the Clippers.

Despite facing challenges and changes in his career, including a fallout with the Sixers last summer, Harden has shown resilience and adaptability with the Clippers. His ability to adjust his game to complement Leonard and George, as well as his versatility in scoring and playmaking, has been crucial to the team's success.

As the Clippers look ahead to the upcoming season, they have solidified their roster with the re-signing of Harden, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive campaign. With a mix of talent, experience, and determination, the Clippers are poised to make a strong push for a championship title, showcasing the resilience and tenacity that define the team.