According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Orlando Magic are emerging as potential contenders in the pursuit of Paul George and Klay Thompson in the upcoming 2024 NBA free agency.
Stain reported, “Orlando continues to be mentioned by various league observers as a natural suitor for George as well as Golden State’s Klay Thompson.” He highlighted the Clippers’ desire to retain George but noted their willingness to negotiate within their budget.
Paul George holds a player option for the 2024-25 season worth $48.8 million. Should he opt out, the Orlando Magic, alongside the previously rumored Philadelphia 76ers, are poised to make a move before the June 30 deadline, providing a limited window for the Clippers to influence George’s decision.
Despite his tenure with the Los Angeles franchise, George’s future appears uncertain, especially following a playoff performance where he averaged 19.5 points against the Dallas Mavericks, his lowest since 2013.
Meanwhile, Klay Thompson enters the final season of his five-year, $190 million contract with the Golden State Warriors, earning $43.2 million for the 2023-24 season. The four-time NBA champion and five-time All-Star has spent his entire career in the Bay Area since being drafted in 2011.
Earlier this season, the Warriors offered Thompson a two-year extension worth approximately $48 million, which he declined, indicating a misalignment in expectations between him and the team.
At 34, Thompson has grappled with significant setbacks due to knee and Achilles injuries, leading to his absence for two consecutive seasons and part of the 2021-22 season.