Kawhi Leonard, Clippers rally to beat Lakers 111-106

The Los Angeles Clippers are “determined” to retain Paul George and James Harden in free agency, reports ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

George will potentially be the top available free agent this offseason and is expected to receive interest from the likes of the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic.

Harden was acquired by the Clippers last October and will have a more limited market from rival teams.

The Clippers previously signed Kawhi Leonard to a three-year, $152.4 million extension.

Denver Nuggets general manager Calvin Booth was candid in discussing how he’s built the roster since taking over two seasons ago. Booth said finding a balance has been one of his goals. And finding that offense-defense balance led to a trade last season.

On trading young guard Bones Hyland, Booth said defense and finances paid a part. Booth said that there was just too much overlap with Hyland and Michael Porter Jr. on the roster together.

“I knew you couldn’t have two guys that couldn’t guard, and we couldn’t have two guys that were young and kind of more ‘me guys,'” Booth said. “Mike makes $30 million. He’s one of the best shooters in the NBA. So, Bones, there’s no place for you.”