In a highly anticipated return to Los Angeles, NBA star Paul George found himself on the receiving end of a chorus of boos from the hometown crowd. The former Clippers standout, who spent five seasons with the team before signing with the Philadelphia 76ers last summer, called the hostile reception “stupid” in his post-game comments.
A Warm Welcome Turns Cold
George, playing in just his second game of the season after battling a knee injury, was greeted with a mix of cheers and jeers during pre-game introductions at the Clippers’ new Intuit Dome. While the team played a tribute video highlighting his contributions during his tenure, many fans in “The Wall”—a section known for its die-hard supporters—made their displeasure known.
It is stupid. I mean, I was a free agent, you know what I mean? It wasn’t something that I demanded a trade or went against the team here. I was a free agent.
Paul George on the boos from Clippers fans
Despite the chilly reception, George put up solid numbers, scoring 18 points on 7-of-9 shooting and grabbing seven rebounds. However, his efforts weren’t enough to propel the 76ers to victory, as they fell to the Clippers 110-98.
The Departure That Shocked the NBA
George’s decision to leave the Clippers in free agency last year sent shockwaves through the league. After forming a dynamic duo with Kawhi Leonard and helping lead the team to its first Western Conference Finals appearance in 2021, many expected him to re-sign with the club.
However, contract negotiations broke down over the issue of a no-trade clause and the length of the deal. The Clippers reportedly offered George a three-year, $150 million extension but were unwilling to include the no-trade provision or commit to a four-year max contract.
I think it got kind of misconstrued or [the] narrative kind of wasn’t written correctly with the relationship with Lawrence [Frank], the relationship with Steve Ballmer. I mean, they were awesome the whole time I was here.
Paul George on his relationship with Clippers management
A New Chapter in the City of Brotherly Love
Ultimately, George chose to take his talents to Philadelphia, inking a four-year, $212 million max deal with the 76ers. The move pairs him with fellow stars Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons as the franchise looks to make a deep playoff run in the Eastern Conference.
For George, the opportunity to play in a basketball-crazed city like Philadelphia was too good to pass up. He’s embraced his new teammates and the passionate fan base, even as he faces criticism from some corners for leaving the Clippers.
Ain’t no bad blood. I talked to those guys throughout the whole process. James was informed with what I was doing. Kawhi was informed with what I was doing. Russ [Westbrook] was informed with what I was doing. I talked to all those guys so there was no bad blood.
Paul George on his communication with former Clippers teammates
Looking Ahead: George’s Legacy and the Clippers’ Future
As George settles into his new home in Philadelphia, questions remain about his legacy with the Clippers and the team’s path forward without him. While he helped elevate the franchise to new heights during his tenure, the failure to capture a championship will linger in the minds of many fans.
For the Clippers, the focus now shifts to Leonard’s health and the supporting cast around him. The team will look to integrate new additions like Kemba Walker and Devontae Cacok as they aim to remain competitive in a tough Western Conference.
As for George, he’ll have plenty of opportunities to silence his critics and prove that he made the right decision in joining the 76ers. With a talented roster and a hungry fan base behind him, the stage is set for the next chapter in his NBA journey.
Only time will tell how this saga ultimately plays out, but one thing is certain: Paul George’s return to LA as a member of the opposition will be a storyline to watch for years to come.
