When the Indiana Pacers traded Paul George to the Oklahoma City Thunder for Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis, most thought it was a lopsided transaction. However, fast forward to March of the 2017-18 NBA season and the Pacers currently have the third-best record in the Eastern Conference led by the first-time NBA All-Star Oladipo.
With the Los Angeles Lakers beginning a four-game road trip in Indiana, head coach Luke Walton reflected on the George trade according to Tania Ganguli of Los Angeles Times:
On the trade that sent Paul George to OKC, Luke Walton said he initially “thought it was lopsided,” but “I’m man enough to admit I was wrong.” Has been very impressed with Indiana.
— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) March 17, 2018
As the Pacers were heavily mocked for the trade, they ultimately believed in Oladipo and Sabonis' potential and they have already rewarded them. In 63 appearances, the 25-year-old is averaging 23.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists as he will likely earn this year's NBA Most Improved Player award. In addition, Sabonis is having a strong sophomore season, averaging 11.7 points and 7.9 rebounds in 66 appearances.
As most will remember, George informed the Pacers he would not be re-signing in 2018 free agency and has since been linked with the Lakers. Although the 27-year-old has had a strong individual season (21.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists), the Thunder have been extremely inconsistent. Depending on how far Oklahoma City goes in the playoffs could ultimately decide if the Thunder made the right move or if he was a one-year rental.
For the Lakers, it is no secret they are clearing enough cap space to sign two max contract players in George and LeBron James. After winning more than 30 games for the first time since the 2012-13 season, Los Angeles is becoming an attractive destination again with a young and competitive core.
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