Clippers refusing to let Thunder get last laugh from Paul George trade

Jan 19, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault reacts against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images | Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesIt is no secret that the OKC Thunder have built their budding dynasty on the back of their now-famous 2019 trade with the LA Clippers, where they shipped Paul George out to Los Angeles and received Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and a slew of future draft picks in return, one of which turned into All-Star Jalen Williams.

As the final draft pick included in the deal approach, many thought Oklahoma City would have a 2026 lottery selection fall into their…