In the off-season, Paul George declared that he had no intentions of re-signing with the Indiana Pacers, and announced his plans to join the Los Angeles Lakers. Surprisingly, the Pacers actually traded him to the Oklahoma City Thunder a few weeks after this statement. The Thunder took an obvious gamble when they traded for George. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and many have wondered if he will still hold true to his promise to suit up for his hometown team. In any case, the Thunder have apparently made a lasting impression on George, even though they are probably unsure if he will stay with them next season.
In fact, George expressed that he was feeling a sense of ‘brotherhood' with his teammates Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony to ESPN's Rachel Nichols.
Paul George once again spoke about his connection to the Lakers and his upcoming free agency. https://t.co/ADqjWCV4ej pic.twitter.com/3XaucCDqXz
— i'm pouring honi on you goat (@HoniAhm) February 4, 2018
During the season, George and the Thunder have forged an interesting relationship. Initially, there were doubts and concerns on whether George, Anthony, and Westbrook would fit on the court. Though, this season, some of those concerns linger in particular embarrassing losses for the Thunder. Nonetheless, George feels that he has a special connection with his teammates, which should give individuals a forward glimpse into what could play out in George's free agency.
Although George is linked to the Lakers, his friendship ties to the Thunder may be enough to convince him to stay. If he does, this could alter the entire off-season for the Lakers, who plan to make an all-out attempt to steal George and other key players. Chemistry is an important thing in the NBA, and it could be an asset to the Thunder moving forward this year.