76ers rumor: Paul George s deal rumor is thrown into cold water again

NBA rumors say the Philadelphia 76ers do not intend to trade Paul George, nor do they intend to trade him with the No. 3 draw. According to the latest report by Jack Fisher of Stan Tie, rumors surrounding Paul George's future deal with the Philadelphia 76ers seem to be exaggerated.

Contrary to recent rumors, Fisher reported that there was no indication that the Sixers were considering a No. 3 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to package the trade of George, or considering a separate trade to the experienced forward.

"There is no indication that they are considering a 3-plate deal with George, or trying to trade him alone," Fisher wrote. "The Sixers must understand that after George's first 76ers suffered from injuries, they had little chance to get the best deal for the 35-year-old...especially with George's max contract with three seasons left."

George signed a four-year, $211.5 million contract with the Sixers as a free agent last summer. However, his first season in Philadelphia was plagued by injuries and played only 41 games. He averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.8 steals per game, shooting 43% from the field and 35.8% from three-pointers.

There are reports refuting speculations about Paul George's third pick in the potential trading plan for the Sixers.

Fischer added that the league has been skeptical about the idea that the Sixers would consider trading George early in his coaching.

"There are often rumors within the league that when Philadelphia was chasing George as a free agent last summer, there were rumors that the Sixers would not try to trade the superstar in the early days of George's coaching unless George offered a deal." Fischer added.

Although the team is not actively selling George at the moment, they are still open to other forms of lineup building. League sources told the Stan Tie that the Sixers are expected to consider a downward trade from the third pick, but are not expected to give up the Lotto zone deal altogether.

"The Philadelphia 76ers attach great importance to the opportunity to bring in young players, and their core roster already has 24-year-old Terrys Maxi and upcoming second-year guard Jared McCain, who will be paired with veterans Joel Embiid and Paul George," Fischer pointed out.

The latest report matches recent remarks by 76ers insider Kyle Newbeck, who dismisses speculation that the Sixers are trying to trade a high pick for a mature star.

"I interviewed a source tonight who poured cold water on recent reports about the Sixers' intention to pack the No. 3 pick in exchange for a veteran star," Newbeck said. "This is in line with the team's recent public statement that they are happy to bring in more dynamic young players to the core roster."

At present, the Sixers seem ready to retain Paul George's second season with the team, while using the No. 3 draw to consolidate their young player base.