The Paul George era with the Boston Celtics has officially begun. PG made his first visit to the franchise’s practice facility and, judging by his words, there is no shortage of excitement surrounding this new chapter of his career.
George arrived in Boston in the blockbuster trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers and he knows full well that he is facing a challenge that will be anything but easy. At 36, after two difficult seasons in Philadelphia, he will have to take on a significant part of the legacy left by Brown and become Jayson Tatum’s new running mate.
And his first message to Celtics fans was pretty clear.
I’m going to give you everything I have. It’s surreal, I’m really excited. I can’t wait to start this journey, put on the green and represent Boston
Paul George
Paul George and the Celtics: a new opportunity for PG
He is no longer the Paul George who finished third in the 2018-19 MVP race, but Boston won’t ask him to be that player, either. The Celtics have Jayson Tatum as their focal point and the goal will be to put PG in position to make the most of his experience, shooting and versatility without having to carry the team on his own.
George is coming off a far-from-easy season with the Sixers, one affected by injuries and also by a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program. He played 37 regular-season games, averaging 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.7 steals while still shooting an excellent 39.2% from three-point range.
After stints with the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers, Boston could represent one of Paul George’s last real opportunities to chase a championship ring.