Paul George, G/F, Los Angeles Clippers
George and the Clippers have failed for months to come to terms on an extension, and the veteran wing has a $48.8 million player option he can turn down to become a free agent.
The Philadelphia 76ers will roll out the red carpet for Paul, yet can't outbid the Clippers. Los Angeles can still offer slightly more money overall ($221 million over four years compared to $212 million) and won't want to lose their All-Star forward before moving into a new arena.
Los Angeles will end up paying Paul more than Kawhi Leonard to get him to stay.
Isaiah Hartenstein, C, New York Knicks
There's no on-court reason for Hartenstein to leave the Knicks after establishing himself as a quality starting center this season. New York possessing early bird rights on the 26-year-old center means they can only offer up to $72.5 million over a four-year deal, however.
It would take a team with a need at center and cap space to make a real run at Hartenstein, with no real contenders sticking out. The Oklahoma City Thunder could try and pair him next to Chet Holmgren or the Orlando Magic could make a run if they feel Hartenstein is an upgrade over Wendell Carter Jr.
Both the Knicks and Hartenstein should want to stay together, however. Don't be surprised if a new contract comes in at the max amount New York can offer.
LeBron James, F, Los Angeles Lakers
Currently possessing the most valuable player option to date in NBA history at $51.4 million, James could stay in Los Angeles and extend off his current deal or choose to become a free agent.
The Philadelphia 76ers look like the only real threat to sign James, assuming he's not interested in playing for the mid-level exception just yet. Still, moving across the country with two kids still in the house to play for a fourth NBA franchise may not be the best thing for James personally or professionally.
James will likely end up taking his $160 million in some fashion, staying in Los Angeles and putting pressure on the organization to bring in a third star.
