Golden State Warriors Decision Led to Paul George Joining Philadelphia 76ers

Paul George joining the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason in a four-year, $212 million deal might have lasting effects on the league. The franchise are being considered as Championship contenders after adding the 9-time All-Star to their ranks. If things worked out a bit differently, he could have ended up with the Golden State Warriors though.

It is believed that the Warriors wanted to add George this summer, as they sought to maximise the last few years of Stephen Curry in his prime.

It seems that the Los Angeles Clippers wanted Jonathan Kuminga as part of a trade deal for George though, which led to the Warriors backtracking.

Kuminga had an excellent 2023-24 season in which he averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 26.4 minutes across 74 regular-season games.

It was the kind of breakout season that fans had been expecting from Kuminga for a while and the Warriors clearly were not ready to part ways with someone who could be their next 'franchise player'.

It worked out brilliantly for the 76ers, who ended up landing the signature of George in free agency as a result.

Brett Siegel wrote on ClutchPoints : "When the Clippers wanted Kuminga included in any deal for George, the Warriors quickly backtracked and were unwilling to negotiate, league sources told ClutchPoints. This led to George then opting out of his contract and signing with the 76ers in free agency."

The Warriors were not able to land a top-level player to replace Klay Thompson, who joined the Dallas Mavericks this summer, bringing an end to his legendary run in the Bay Area.

As a result, the Warriors are no longer being considered as title contenders ahead of the 2024-25 season.

On the other hand, the expectation is for the 76ers to challenge for a ring this time around. In George, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, they have arguably the best trio in the league.

The 76ers are more than just their Big Three though, having made several smart additions over the summer.