Los Angeles Lakers: Biggest competitors for Paul George

By Jason Reed | May 2, 2018

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - DECEMBER 25: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots against the Houston Rockets during the first half of a NBA game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on December 25, 2017 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

2. Houston Rockets

Another potential fir for LeBron James next offseason, the Houston Rockets also present an interesting dynamic for Paul George to consider.

At it stands right now, the Rockets have $21 million in practical cap space this summer. While that will not be much more than George would be making with the Thunder, the promise of winning multiple rings alongside James Harden may tower over financial requirements.

Making matters even more interesting is the fact that the team has Bird Rights on star point guard Chris Paul; theoretically allowing the team to sign George and then Paul to go over the salary cap.

A big three of Paul, Harden and George would arguably be as good, if not better, than the trio of Steph Curry, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson.

While it could cause some problems, as there is only one basketball, the Rockets have made it work this season and could make this happen if James Harden takes a slightly smaller workload; something he shouldn’t be opposed to if it means a title. He already has his max deal.

This is a team with 70-win potential. With this big three, Ryan Anderson and the impressive Clint Capela, the Rockets would become the most well-rounded team in basketball.

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