Draymond Green believes Clippers 'killed' Paul George trade

The Golden State Warriors reportedly had an interest in acquiring Paul George in a sign-and-trade from the LA Clippers. George eventually opted out of his player option and chose to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, leaving Golden State to continue searching for high-level additions.

During a recent episode of “The Draymond Green Show” podcast, the Warriors veteran forward shared his belief that the Clippers ‘killed’ a potential sign-and-trade between the two teams. George would have strengthened a conference rival had the trade gone through. Instead, he will now be playing his basketball in the Eastern Conference.

“For us to get Paul George, it would have taken a sign-and-trade,” Green said. “The Clippers didn’t really wanna play ball. Didn’t really wanna help him get him to where he wanted to go…So, these organizations don’t always be willing to play ball. And I don’t think the Clippers were really willing to play ball for Paul George.”

Golden State’s roster will look different next season. They lost Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal with the Dallas Mavericks. Chris Paul has joined the San Antonio Spurs. And Dario Saric has agreed to a two-year deal with the Denver Nuggets.

The Warriors have since added Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, De’Anthony Melton and Lindy Waters III. Nevertheless, there’s no doubt George would have positioned Golden State to challenge for a championship next season. Now, there will be some questions the team needs to answer once the 2024-25 season gets underway.