Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer believes that letting Paul George leave in the offseason was the right decision for both the player and the team.
After George opted out of his contract with the Clippers and signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, Ballmer expressed his confidence in the direction the Clippers are taking without their former All-Star forward.
Speaking to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk, Ballmer reflected on the decision, highlighting the Clippers’ ability to reshape their roster after George’s departure.
“We were able to get three guys who are tough, hard-playing guys,” he said. “And we still have the ability to consistently make ourselves better. So it was the right choice for us.”
In his five seasons with Los Angeles, George contributed significantly to the Clippers’ playoff runs and earned a reputation as a strong leader and scorer.
Known for his two-way skills, George made an impact on both ends of the floor, averaging 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in over 263 games during his time with the team.
However, despite high expectations, the Clippers were unable to make it past the Western Conference Finals with George and Kawhi Leonard leading the roster.
George’s decision to join the 76ers marks a significant shift, but Ballmer remains optimistic about the new Clippers lineup, which he feels has gained toughness and adaptability.
Despite the split, Ballmer expressed genuine respect and admiration for George, both as a player and as a person. “Paul obviously thought it was the right choice for him,” he stated, adding, “I’ll miss him. Very good human being, like him a lot, except when they play us.” Ballmer praised George’s contributions to the franchise and his positive influence in the locker room, acknowledging that George “was a good Clipper.”
