8) Paul George - Los Angeles Clippers
Los Angeles Clipper star Paul George is one of the older potential targets on this list, and he might not even be available for a trade by the time the season ends. He can opt out of his four-year, $176.3 million contract this summer.
There has been little movement in the form of a potential contract extension, setting George up to be one of the premier options on the market if he opts out.
If he doesn’t, the Hawks could send an offer similar to this hypothetical package to the Clippers.
This move is one last hurrah with Young at the helm.
It would allow the Hawks a chance to reset after next season if they don’t agree to an extension with George following a trade. Young would have two years left on his contract with the option to hit free agency after one.
Hunter still has three years left on his contract and has been injury-prone in his career. Murray has been durable but will only be starting his four-year deal next season.
George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals this season.
He posted a 19.8/6.0/4.8 line in the postseason, shooting 41% from downtown. He also averaged 1.5 steals but it wasn’t enough to stave off elimination after five games against the Dallas Mavericks.
Could a large luxury tax bill for a modestly successful product spark changes in LA?