Clippers Target for Paul George Replacement is a Terrible Idea

The NBA offseason quickly came with the NBA Finals being wrapped up on June 17. The Los Angeles Clippers have some serious questions to answer regarding the state of their roster.

Forward Paul George is looking to ink a long-term extension but it's been reported that the Clippers don't want to offer George more than the three-year, $153 million deal they gave to Kawhi Leonard.

That deal won't cut it to keep George in town but no one knows if the Clippers will budge off their initial offer. If they don't, they risk losing out on the nine-time All-Star. In addition, the player they would target to replace George isn't the best option.

Clippers News: Los Angeles May Be a Suitor For DeMar DeRozan

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype revealed that the Los Angeles Clippers would be a team to watch in a sign-and-trade for DeMar DeRozan if George left in free agency.

"However, one team worth monitoring as a potential suitor for DeRozan via sign-and-trade is the Los Angeles Clippers, should the franchise fail to re-sign Paul George in free agency, HoopsHype has learned."

- Michael Scotto

If the Clips really pulled the trigger on that move, it would be a downgrade for them. George, 34, is still an athletic two-way force in the frontcourt. He plays stifling defense while being a three-level scorer on the offensive end.

As for DeRozan, he can still be a quality scorer but is limited to the mid-range area and the paint. In addition, DeRozan's defense is nowhere near the intensity and effectiveness of George. And that's the biggest area where the Clippers can't afford a slip.

With Kawhi Leonard's health constantly in doubt, losing your best player in the frontcourt wouldn't be a wise decision. Also, the Clippers need someone who produced in the playoffs as the pressure mounts and DeRozan isn't that guy. He's only won four playoff games over the last six years.

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