NBA Rumors: 76ers' Interest in Clippers' Paul George Has 'Significantly Waned' | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors
Aria Murphy
Published Mar 25, 2026
The Philadelphia 76ers' pursuit of Paul George appears to be winding down.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, the 76ers' interest in attempting to acquire George has "significantly waned in recent days" and the front office is now expected to be "aggressive elsewhere" to upgrade the roster.
The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor previously reported on May 27 that George was Philadelphia's "plan A" in free agency following a first-round exit in the 2024 NBA playoffs.
Armed with roughly $65 million in cap space, 76ers president Daryl Morey hasn't been shy about his desire to add another elite player in the offseason that fits alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Morey even told reporters on May 6 that he was looking for "someone at the wing who can play & deliver in the playoffs," which caused even more speculation regarding George.
Josh Reynolds @JoshReynolds24When asked about the Sixers specific needs heading into the offseason, Daryl Morey said:<br><br>"Someone at the wing who can play & deliver in the playoffs."<br><br>Narrows the list of targets pretty well. Music to Sixers fans ears. I think he's got something cooking up.
The nine-time All-Star's future with the Clippers is uncertain, as he owns a $48.7 million player option for the 2024-25 season (via Spotrac). If he were to opt out and explore free agency, the 76ers initially appeared to be a potential suitor.
However, Philadelphia's interest in George is reportedly declining and could result in the front office exploring other avenues to build around Embiid and Maxey. One alternative could be New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram, as Kelly Iko of The Athletic revealed on Thursday that the Pelicans reached out to the 76ers as New Orleans is in the midst of trade discussions involving Ingram.
Morey could also look to retain a familiar face on a cheaper contract such as Kelly Oubre Jr. instead of pursuing George. After signing a one-year deal with the 76ers in 2023, Oubre averaged 15.4 points and 5.0 rebounds per game as he emerged as a starter.
