Paul George has taken the first step towards making a decision on his future.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, he's informed the Oklahoma City Thunder that he won't be opting in for the final year of his contract and will become an unrestricted free agent.

The 28-year-old will decline a $20.7 million salary for the 2018-19 season but he still has a strong interest in remaining with the Thunder.

He's also likely to give serious consideration to the Los Angeles Lakers too, as he's previously made it clear that he has an interest in playing back in his hometown.

When he told the Indiana Pacers that he wouldn't be signing a new deal last summer, George is believed to have requested a trade to the Lakers.

But he was instead offloaded to OKC and he's openly stated that he's enjoyed his 12 months with the franchise despite their season ending in disappointing fashion with a first-round playoff exit against the Utah Jazz.

As well as the Lakers and Thunder, the Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers are also interested in pursuing the small forward and will hope to hold discussions with him.

At this stage, Oklahoma City are the favourites to re-sign the five-time All-Star.

Lasting impression

Since arriving, he's developed a strong relationship with Russell Westbrook and that could play a huge part in his decision.

George has often spoken about how much he enjoyed playing for the organisation and how general manager Sam Presti and Billy Donovan have made a positive impression on him.

In his one campaign with the team, PG13 averaged 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.0 steals per game.

He's very much open to a future with OKC but will explore all of his options when he can officially negotiate with teams on July 1.

The All-NBA man is eligible to sign a five-year, $176 million deal with the Thunder, which is more than other teams can offer him.

But the Lakers have huge plans this offseason and acquiring George is high on their list of their priorities.

The Purple and Gold are ambitiously looking to create the league's newest super team by potentially signing PG and LeBron James in free agency and concluding a trade for Kawhi Leonard.

With George now opting out, the ball will firmly be in LA's court to woo the Southern California native and sell him on a future in a Purple and Gold uniform.

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