Things have taken a huge step forward in the rumor mill surrounding Paul George after he reportedly indicated to the Indiana Pacers on Sunday that he plans on becoming a free agent next summer.
It has also initiated talks between the Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers concerning the All-Star forward, which Sam Amico of AmicoHoops.net is reporting could see the dialogue between both sides concluding prior to the start of the 2017 NBA Draft next Thursday night.
#Cavs and #Pacers talks have a feel of multiple players being involved. Indy wants a deal done before Thursday's draft. #NBA
— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) June 19, 2017
Although the Cavaliers don’t have a lot to offer in terms of young talent and draft picks, things could get interesting if they make Kevin Love available in trade talks. Love has been involved in several trade rumors in his first three seasons with the team whenever the franchise experiences any long stretches of struggle.
The 28-year-old is coming off his most productive season in Cleveland averaging a double-double with 19.0 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. He also has three seasons left on his five-year, $113.2 million deal that possesses no player or team option for the final year.
The heightened urgency to get George could be linked to the growing belief that LeBron James could entertain leaving the team next summer in free agency. James is set to enter the second year of his three-year, $99.8 million deal that possesses a $35.6 million player option for the 2018-19 season.