Paul George could exchange Tobias Harris with Philadelphia 76ers during free agency

During the crucial free agency period, there has been a lot of talk about a possible trade involving Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and Tobias Harris of the Philadelphia 76ers. Although George was thought to be the Sixers' top free-agent target, there have been rumours circulating that the franchise is no longer as interested. 

However, the connection between the nine-time All-Star and talents like Joel Embiid and Maxey is clear, and the Sixers have long desired George. Embiid even went so far as to openly recruit George during a joint appearance on ESPN's NBA Countdown show, demonstrating the two sides' shared desire. 

While George's future with the Clippers remains uncertain, a potential sign-and-trade deal might be on the horizon to accommodate his demand for a four-year contract, something the Clippers have been unwilling to provide.

According to an NBA source, the 76ers may give the 16th selection in the draft and maybe include Tobias Harris in a sign-and-trade agreement. Another league source claims that Los Angeles is interested in Harris, who will shortly become a free agency after previously playing for Los Angeles Clippers. Pompey added that if Paul George decides to join free agency, Philadelphia may also pursue him.

 New York Knicks eager to sign

With George's contract status certain to be determined by Saturday, many possibilities, including a sign-and-trade arrangement between the Clippers and the Sixers, remain viable options. In this prospective trade, the Sixers might use assets such as the No. 16 pick to consider including Tobias Harris, a player of interest to the Clippers, according to league sources.

Paul George may end up playing for the New York Knicks, according to NBA insider reports. The Knicks are reportedly a "potential trade suitor" for George, a nine-time All-Star who has the option to activate his $48.8 million player option for the 2024–25 season. Stein's sources claim that if George chooses to participate, he may look to be traded to a different team, the Knicks being one possibility. 

However, the Knicks, who qualified for the playoffs after finishing second in the Eastern Conference, would benefit from having a player of George's calibre join them. Combining him with Julius Randle, OG Anunoby, and Jalen Brunson might increase the Knicks' chances of going farther into the postseason and building a strong core going forward.