Joel Embiid and Paul George took center stage ahead of the 2024 NBA Finals but ... not as players.
The two All-Stars joined ESPN's pregame coverage before the Mavericks' blowout Game 4 win over the Celtics. In retrospect, Embiid and George's media appearance was more entertaining than the game itself.
George was quick to poke fun at himself, joking about making his NBA Finals debut.
"This is my first Finals appearance, and I hate that it had to come in this fashion. Watching from the sideline, it don't feel good," George said.
Embiid couldn't hide his disdain for Boston, speaking against the idea that the Celtics are going to be a dynasty before outright saying how much he hates the city.
"The whole East was kind of hurt this year, myself included," Embiid said in response to Malika Andrews asking if Boston could be a dynasty.
"I can't stand them. I can't stand them. I hate Boston," Embiid began before enjoying a viral moment.
MORE: Joel Embiid sends shot at Bucks over Jrue Holiday trade
What did Joel Embiid say about Paul George?
On the heels of expressing his hate for Boston, Embiid went on to give the city's fans credit before not-so-subtly hinting at how Philadelphia can get to the same stage.
"Hopefully, this offseason, we find a way to get better and, you know, add some pieces," Embiid said with a massive smile on his face as he panned over at George sitting next to him.
— Oh Yes He Did (@OhYesHeDid24) June 15, 2024
It is no secret that the 76ers are interested in signing George if he becomes a free agent this offseason.
The Clippers star faces a $48.8 million player option and hasn't been able to come to terms on a contract extension with LA just yet.
"[George] and the Clippers have swapped numbers and they are not on the same page," ESPN's Brian Windhorst said on "The Pat McAfee Show" on June 12.
Windhorst also mentioned Philadelphia as a potential destination for George if he became an unrestricted free agent because the 76ers cleared the cap space to offer him a max contract.
MORE: Paul George landing spots: Where could Clippers star go in free agency?
The 34-year-old has a lengthy injury history but did play in 74 games this past season, averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game. George is a nine-time All-Star who still has some game left in the tank. He would be a perfect fit in Philadelphia, playing on the wing next to Embiid and rising star Tyrese Maxey.
If George and the Clippers can't reach an agreement, it's already clear that Embiid has intentions of courting him to the City of Brotherly Love.
