https://www.latimes.com/sports/clippers/story/2023-07-12/clippers-kawhi-leonard-paul-george-contract-extensions
The Clippers face an uncertain future with their stars, who are returning from injuries again and will be eligible for four-year, $220-million extensions.
On the other hand, they have no draft picks, so they might as well. They're screwed unless PG and Kawhi both stay healthy, which has to be a 5% chance at best, but if they don't sign them what are they going to do, build through free agency? They would be letting go of the two best free agent options.
They're screwed either way, might as well ride it out and hope for one healthy season. Maybe play hardball and see if you can get them to take minor pay cuts, team option in the last year, etc.
You’re completely right, they are screwed either way. I just think with their new stadium opening soon and the higher tax thresholds, they are going to play a little hardball.