Kawhi Leonard, Paul George are not guaranteed to return
Heading into the season, there’s at least an outside chance that his year ends up being the final one where both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are members of the LA Clippers. Contract extensions are likely being discussed but it wouldn’t be surprising if the offseason arrived and both players were entering free agency. There’s at least a chance this is the final shot the Clippers have to win a title with both Kawhi and PG on the roster.
Wouldn’t that make the front office more inclined to take a chance on a needle-moving move such as James Harden? You’d imagine. I’d make the argument that it would be bad business if the franchise wasn’t willing to make a move for Harden. The negotiating tactics are over. The regular season is practically here. It’s time for the Clippers to make a move and get this deal done.
The Clippers should be putting Kawhi and PG, who are finally entering a season healthy, in the best possible position to be successful. Trading for Harden would accomplish that. With potentially one more shot at a title, the Clippers should be going all-in with Kawhi and PG.