NBA

Joel Embiid leaves major Paul George-76ers hint with potential free agency looming

Joel Embiid dropped quite the hint.

The 76ers star joined ESPN’s “NBA Countdown” show Friday night before the Mavericks’ 122-84 Game 4 win over the Celtics, staving elimination and cutting Boston’s series advantage to 3-1.

Clippers wing Paul George was also on the ESPN panel, and Embiid seemingly made his intention to woo him to Philadelphia known.

“Hopefully this offseason we find a way to get better and add some pieces,” Embiid said on the broadcast before looking over at George and smiling.

George, who has played the last five seasons with the Clippers, has a player option for next year.

He can become a free agent if he opts out.

Joel Embiid hinted at his interest in playing with Paul George on ESPN’s “NBA Countdown” show on Friday. Screengrab
Joel Embiid hinted at his interest in playing with Paul George on ESPN’s “NBA Countdown” show on Friday. Screengrab

The Clippers, largely without Kawhi Leonard, were eliminated by the Mavericks in six games in the first round of the playoffs.

George, a nine-time All-Star, averaged 22.6 points per game in the regular season and 19.5 points in that first-round series loss.

Embiid, playing through a knee injury and Bell’s palsy, and the 76ers were eliminated in six games by the Knicks in the first round.

Paul George can opt out of his contract this offseason. USA TODAY Sports

He was asked how he felt watching the Celtics on the cusp of winning a title.

“I can’t stand them,” Embiid said. “I hate Boston. Great city, great fans. Obviously, they have some great players. But it hurts me a lot.”

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