Recent reports have linked the Knicks to Paul George as the Clippers star reportedly plans to opt in to his contract and demand a trade, which would give New York another star to pair with Jalen Brunson.
But given George’s age and struggles to stay healthy, both Gio and Jerry want no part of him in New York.
“It is the direct opposite of the philosophy that this group has had since coming in and taking over,” Gio said.
“We understand how talented he is, and that he did play 77 games last year…he’s 34 now. This was the type of guy that we said ‘Don’t do it, don’t go for the overpriced, washed-up star in his mid-30s. Keep building.’ It seems like the Knicks are interested enough to look and see if it fits, and I think it would be a bad idea.”
George is still playing at a high level and would dramatically improve the Knicks offense next season, but injuries are always a concern, especially as he reaches the end of his prime. Couple those concerns with the way that the Knicks season ended, and Jerry says parting with big-time assets to get George would not be worth it.
“I don’t know that I’d go anywhere near him,” Jerry said. “Not at this stage of his career and the games he’s missed in his career. To me, the Knicks were derailed by injury. Now you’re talking about another injury-plagued player.”