George leaving Clippers

76ers are favourites to sign all-star after he declines $48.8-million option

- TIM REYNOLDS

Paul George averaged 22.6 points this past season, the ninth consecutive season in which he has averaged at least 20 points per game.

Paul George is leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, his now-former team announced Sunday night, with signs pointing to the ninetime all-star returning to the Eastern Conference and joining the Philadelphia 76ers George could command more than $200 million (U.S.) over four years if his next contract is for maximum value.

"Paul has informed us that he is signing his next contract with another team," the Clippers said in a release Sunday night, adding, "We negotiated for months with Paul and his representative on a contract that would make sense for both sides, and we were left far apart. The gap was significant. We understand and respect Paul's decision to look elsewhere for his next contract." George had a $48.8 million option for this coming season but did not exercise it, instead entering free agency which opened Sunday night. It was believed there was a chance that George and the Clippers could have still gotten something done, but the team made clear that those hopes are gone.

"We will miss Paul," the Clippers said.

At 34, George is still elite. He averaged 22.6 points this past season, the ninth consecutive season in which he has averaged at least 20 points per game.