Warriors Must Trade for Clippers' Paul George to Boost Title Hopes Amid NBA Rumors

Paul George is expected to be the most coveted free agent this off-season and according to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Golden State Warriors are a team to watch in that sweepstakes.

Following a season that saw them miss out on the playoffs, finish an uncharacteristic 10th in the Western Conference.

They are also facing the real possibility that future Hall of Fame guard Klay Thompson will explore his options elsewhere in free agency, it is not surprising that the four-time NBA champions and craftsmen behind a modern-day dynasty would look to make a big splash.

There would be no bigger splash that adding George, who would instantly return Golden State to the NBA title discussion.

The veteran reporter also noted that George is expected to exercise his player option to force a sign-and-trade deal after negotiations with the Clippers were relatively unsuccessful. One player to watch in a potential deal is the Warriors' Chris Paul, another future Hall of Famer.

An elite player in the league with 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, George would pair with Curry to create one of the great tandems in the game.

He is coming off a season in which he tallied career bests in field goal and three-point percentages, too.

He is a complete player who can take over games offensively or defensively, making up for those who are having an off night when necessary. He is also selfless, perfectly content to be the second star on a team or open up opportunities for his teammates.

On any given night in the Bay Area, he would need to be just that.

With Curry the unquestioned face and leader of the Warriors, George would be counted on to seize the opportunities when the greatest sharpshooter in NBA history cannot get it going or those nights when the defense is faltering and needs one big play to stunt the momentum of the opponents.

Because he is such a well-rounded player, contenders from across the league will be looking to bring him in, each offering the best deal they can muster.

The Philadelphia 76ers have long been reported to have interest in acquiring George and despite rumors to the contrary, that interest has not wanted, Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype wrote.

It will not be easy for the Warriors to execute the a deal with significant organizations across the league looking to bring Paul in with the hopes of enhancing their own championship aspirations.

Even more so given the sticky situation the team finds itself in at $108 million over the salary cap. Should George opt-in with Los Angeles, it will be under a $48.8 million deal.

Still, the organization wants to win and there are few players that could realistically be brought on board and immediately alter its fortunes, rejuvenate the team, and elevate it to championship contention.

Paul is one of them.