Kawhi Leonard foresees Paul George and James Harden staying with the Clippers

Kawhi Leonard is said to have accepted a contract extension that falls short of his potential maximum earnings. This decision was made with the expectation that it would facilitate the LA Clippers in retaining both Paul George and James Harden.

“With the conversation that I have with them about it, I think for the most part everybody is coming back,” Leonard said after the Clippers beat the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. “So, with me signing an extension, I think it gives us a chance to sign both of those players.”

George mentioned that he and the Clippers are in the process of discussing a potential contract extension. He expressed confidence that the deal will be finalized, citing Kawhi Leonard’s extension as a positive precedent.

“I mean, absolutely,” George said when asked whether Leonard’s extension is a steppingstone to him staying. “You secure and lock in Kawhi. Definitely leaves the door open for myself, but very, very optimistic something will get done on my behalf, as well.”

Harden, following his trade to the Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers, is not eligible for an extension. He is poised to enter unrestricted free agency, but indications strongly suggest that Harden will choose to re-sign with the team in Los Angeles.