"Don't have a problem with Paul George leaving" - Kawhi Leonard addresses former Clippers teammate's departure to Sixers

Kawhi Leonard won't have Paul George by his side next season after his now-former teammate signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. Leonard was not interested in answering questions about George during a recent press conference at Team USA practice.

According to Gina Mizell of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Leonard turned down questions about George. The two players teamed up for five seasons with the LA Clippers although their partnership didn't result in a championship.

"I'm not talking about that. I'm here to talk about USA Basketball," Leonard said.

The Clippers superstar later clarified his stance about George:

"I don't have a problem with him leaving." [H/T Ben Golliver of The Washington Post]

Kawhi Leonard signed a three-year, $152 million extension with the LA Clippers back in January. Paul George was also due for an extension, but his negotiations with the Clippers were not as fruitful. George eventually opted out of his contract and became an unrestricted free agent.

Several teams were linked with "PG-13" before the Philadelphia 76ers emerged as the favorites. He eventually signed a four-year, $212 million max contract to be the newest star for the Sixers, joining Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

It certainly shook up both the Sixers and Clippers as both teams will have a different look next season. Philly has a new "Big 3" although they have not had a lot of success in the playoffs as individuals.

On the other hand, the Clippers brought back James Harden but are looking to part ways with Russell Westbrook and P.J. Tucker. They also added Derrick Jones Jr., Kevin Porter Jr. and Mo Bamba, while Nic Batum also returns.

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Update on Kawhi Leonard's knee injury

Update on Kawhi Leonard's knee injury. (Photo: IMAGN)

Kawhi Leonard played just two games in the playoffs after suffering a knee injury. Leonard was relatively healthy during the regular season before swelling in his surgically repaired right knee sidelined him for the rest of the playoffs.

There were fears that Leonard's place in Team USA was in jeopardy due to the injury, but it seems like that's not the case. "The Klaw" made it to their first practice in Las Vegas and told reporters that his knee was feeling great.

"Yeah. But I took the time, and I was able to turn around over the last two weeks. So, I'm out here now and, yeah, I'm having a good time," Leonard said. [H/T ESPN]

Leonard has never played for Team USA before his selection two months ago. He has been one of the best American players in the league without an Olympic gold medal like Steph Curry. They have an opportunity to help the United States win its fifth consecutive gold.