Paul George Rumors: Rockets 'Unlikely' as 76ers Eye Clippers Star amid Knicks Buzz

The market for Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George is heating up.

Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype reported that the Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets maintain interest in George and are franchises to monitor in a potential trade or as a suitor in unrestricted free agency if the nine-time All-Star rejects his player option for 2024-25.

Scotto downplayed the reports that the 76ers' interest in George has cooled, projecting that Philadelphia remains a name to watch if he hits free agency.

"Despite a recent report that Philadelphia's interest in Paul George has cooled amid uncertainty about whether he'd go across the country and sign with Philadelphia in free agency, there remains significant interest from the 76ers in signing him as a free agent, league sources told HoopsHype," Scotto wrote.

Scotto also named the Houston Rockets as potential suitors for George, although the chances of Houston landing him are "unlikely."

"The Houston Rockets are big game hunting, and one of the many notable names on their radar is Paul George, league sources told HoopsHype," Scotto wrote. "George could potentially exercise his $48.8 million player option to facilitate a trade to his next destination, but currently, the chances of Houston landing George are unlikely, sources said."

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George's player option is for $48 million in 2024-25, and he could hit the open market following that season. While he may instead opt to find the highest bidder this offseason, he could use that as a tool to go to the most desirable location.

In terms of immediate contention, Philadelphia would probably be the preferable landing spot. The 76ers have made the postseason in seven consecutive seasons but have been unable to surpass the second round during that stretch. Adding George, who averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 2023-24, could be what the franchise needs to take that next step.

Houston has missed out on the postseason in four consecutive seasons, but 2023-24 was a step in the right direction as the Rockets improved to 41-41. While he would likely be in a worse situation than he is with the Clippers, the Rockets have a growing core that George could become the centerpiece of.

Before his future can be solidified, George will have to make a decision on the player option. The deadline for that choice is June 29.