Kevin Pritchard attempted to create a bidding war for Paul George between the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers as the Indiana Pacers seek a trade for him. Pritchard reportedly suggested to both teams that the other was interested in trading for George.

The Cavaliers would package out Kevin Love with a third team, but the Warriors don't have salary to trade for George outside of Draymond Green or Klay Thompson.

"They're going to drag this out," says an Eastern Conference senior VP. "It's always possible somebody jumps out there and offers a lottery pick and a starter, but there's a better chance that teams sit back and wait to see if they're one piece away. It's a big risk. You give too much for a guy who then walks, it could set you back two, three years."

The Los Angeles Lakers are George's preferred destination but the team currently has no plans to give up any significant assets for him.

"If you wait, it puts pressure on George to play well going into the season," said the source.