Why the Warriors are a perfect landing spot for this star amid trade rumors

With the Golden State Warriors failing to make the playoffs, they are in need of a strong offseason to get them back on track. That can start in just a few days with free agency and they have reportedly been linked to a star that is stuck in a contract dispute, Paul George.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George may opt into his contract and work with his team on a trade. That would open the door to teams that don't have cap space and give those teams a chance to acquire a star that they would have otherwise not had an opportunity to land.

While the Warriors don't appear inclined to include their best young players, such as Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Poziemski, Trayce Jackson-Davis, or Moses Moody, they have other players that can be included to possibly acquire George.

Can the Golden State Warriors land Paul George this summer?

The Clippers and George failing to agree to a deal could result in a mutual parting of ways, essentially meaning that the team acquiring him would be pulling off a sign and trade. That might mean that the Clippers would accept less than they would otherwise since George would only agree to opt to be dealt. As a result, the Warriors could offer Chris Paul, Kevon Looney, and Gary Payton II for George.

That deal might make sense for the Clippers and Warriors, with the Clippers getting three rotation players, including Paul, for George. The Warriors, on the other hand, may have to waive or trade Paul to ensure they stay under the second apron and were reportedly considering moving on from Looney for the same reason before picking up his contract, likely to trade him.

As for Payton II, he may be expendable considering his injury history and contract. Moving all three for an upgrade in George would be a huge get for Golden State and give them a chance to reset around Steph Curry this summer.