Let’s start here: Paul George should probably be the Sixers’ first choice. He’s a free agent and he’s a perfect fit next to Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers’ second choice should probably be Jimmy Butler. It will be rough to trade assets and give the soon-to-be 35-year-old an extension, but it optimizes your championship window with Embiid.
It still feels like there’s a good chance George will return to the Clippers once owner Steve Ballmer decides to simply dole out his f-you money. With Butler, we’ve all seen how stubborn Pat Riley can be.