For more than a year, speculation has been rampant Paul George would wind up with the Los Angeles Lakers; whether via trade or as part of the 2018 free agent class. George furthered that speculation when he informed the Indiana Pacers of his desire to be traded to the Lakers.
Indiana instead sent him to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who were widely viewed as a placeholder until this summer. But George has spoken fondly of his time with Carmelo Anthony and Russell Westbrook.
Though, George’s remarks have, at times, hinted at him being torn over the prospect of leaving a stronger Thunder team for his hometown Lakers that are on the rise but still going through a rebuilding process.
With the NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles, fans have kept with the tradition of showering the Palmdale, Calif., native with cheers. “It feels good to be welcomed,” George said Saturday. “I think anybody would want to be wanted and feel welcome. So that always feels great.”
When again questioned about whether or not a decision is already in place for when free agency begins, George answered, “I don’t.” It was a reasonable and understandable response. But then the 27-year-old added some intrigue.
“I know what I feel is best,” George said. “But it’s a long ways until the end of the season.”
General perception holds that George will not sign with the Lakers if the Thunder make a deep playoff run. He did, however, recently state that doing what’s best for his family will be a top priority.
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