The split-up made by Paul George towards the Los Angeles Clippers left a bad taste in the mouth of the star wingman.
Failing to secure the entire four-year max contract he demanded, George bolted out of Clippertown and immediately joined the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a $210 million deal for four seasons. After five seasons of play with them, George hoped the franchise would value his worth. But when the Clippers never entertained his desire, he had to leave and seek a greener pasture financially because of the "disrespect" he saw.
And from last week, PG's father came out on the record in Podcast P and vehemently condemned the Clippers for stabbing them in their back, claiming that the 34-year-old poured everything he could for the franchise but didn't get rewarded.
Ballmer hints ill feelings against PG?
With George's camp releasing harsh statements this summer about his acrimonious departure from the Clippers, Steve Ballmer had formed a misconstrued opinion of the former franchise star. On the contrary.
Recently, a Clippers fan page published an X post subjecting Paul George with the account asking for reactions for him to name some key players who are much better than PG. The Clippers owner emerged as his unlikely supporter.
Interestingly, the account has been verified, which suggests that Ballmer might have reacted to the post. The page's sharing drew hundreds of reactions and stirred plenty of discussion within the Clipper fandom.
Move forward
As he had an opportunity to address why he and the Clippers didn't retain George's service last July, Ballmer admitted that he "hated" how they failed to extend their run with the All-Star, indicating financial constraints as a primary motive of their hesitancy to give George the contract he wants. But from the recent acts and tirades thrown by PG, Ballmer at least has plenty of reasons to change his feelings and be frustrated about George.
Ultimately, both sides must move forward in their respective paths after a failed negotiation and five years of partnership. While the Clippers are set to make the most of what they have with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden still leading the way, George should instead focus on his new beginnings with the 76ers.
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