1. Paul George, F, Clippers (player option)
George is in a perfect position to cash in this summer, with his current team – the Clippers – feeling pressure to retain him as it moves into its new Inglewood arena and looks to keep its window of contention propped open, while the contender with the most cap room – Philadelphia – has made the star forward its top target.
When teammate Kawhi Leonard signed a three-year, $152 million extension in January, it appeared George might have to “settle” for a similar deal.
Now a four-year, maximum-salary contract worth at least $212 million(or up to $221 million if he re-signs in L.A.) appears entirely realistic for George, even at age 34.
