Giving Paul George a no-trade clause is a massive risk

The L.A. Clippers could offer Paul George a no-trade clause to re-sign with the franchise. The rarely used clause would allow George to veto any potential trade throughout his next contract. As such, George would control his future. 

"After signing Leonard to a three-year, $153 million extension during the season, that mark essentially set the standard for the Clippers in future negotiations with George, who the organization views as the team’s second-best player behind a healthy Leonard," HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reported. "...Potentially, the Clippers could offer George, a California native, a no-trade clause in his contract to help sway his decision."

Giving Leonard a no-trade clause could be a disaster for the Clippers. He has rarely been healthy since joining the franchise in 2019, and his next contract will take him deep into his thirties. As such, the Clippers would be removing future flexibility in the trade market. There's no guarantee they will view George as a key component of their roster in three years. 

Nevertheless, the Clippers might not have another option. George is reportedly drawing strong interest from around the NBA. The Philadelphia 76ers are being floated as the main candidate to pry him away from Los Angeles. Giving George some additional security may be the difference-maker the Clippers need.

When healthy, George is still one of the best wings in the NBA. He will undoubtedly command a big contract this summer. The Clippers have built their roster around his partnership with Kawhi Leonard. If giving him a no-trade clause is the only way to secure his future with the team, it's understandable why the Clippers front office would do it. Still, if they can avoid handing out a no-trade clause, they should. 

Whatever happens, Steve Ballmer will be hoping his Clippers team can contend for a championship. He's spared no expense in making them an elite franchise from top to bottom. He must start seeing a return on his investment in the coming years.