The Oklahoma City Thunder had plenty of storylines last season. One of the more compelling aspects of their year involved wing Paul George. George was traded to the Thunder by the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis
The trade worked out for both sides, as Oladipo had a breakout All-Star year for the Pacers, and George made the All-Star team for the fifth time. Next season, George could be much better, though.
His dynamic as a perimeter scorer and defensive specialist proved to be hot and cold throughout the season, but it was established that he was the clear second option. He averaged 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. In his second year playing alongside Russell Westbrook, things should be more in sync.
With the organization knowing George will be sticking around long-term, that should lessen the pressure on the floor. The Thunder and “PG13” agreed on a four-year, $137 million max contract at the beginning of NBA free agency, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Perhaps that will lessen the mental burden on George himself, and lead to a better overall year for him individually.
Next Up: Goal 1
