Paul George‘s abrupt departure from the Indiana Pacers was a distinct move not only for new president Kevin Pritchard, but for the entire organization, with the likes of Jeff Teague and C.J. Miles consequently leaving for greener pastures after their star player was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The 6-foot-9 wing is happy to be starting new, even if Oklahoma City wasn't his desired destination as he expressed through his camp prior to the start of the free agency window. George will play alongside the league's Most Valuable Player and have a chance to challenge the powerhouses in the West, thanks to an upgraded roster built for the long run.

“I’m thrilled,” George told Lee Jenkins of Sports Illustrated. “All I was asking for was a little help in Indy. Now I’m getting a lot of help in Oklahoma.”

He and Westbrook talked shortly on the phone the first night when he was initially traded.

“I think I fit with how he plays and vice versa,” George said. “Being a knock-down shooter, I think I can spread the floor for him and run the floor with him. But I also think I can help get him easier opportunities, being able to drive and dish the ball out, so he can attack guys closing out on him.”

Jenkins wrote that while Kevin Durant and Westbrook sometimes clashed when on the court at the same time, George thinks he may be more tolerant of a ball-dominant point guard, the same way he adored the recently-waived Monta Ellis for instance.

The Thunder made consequent moves, signing Andre Roberson to a three-year deal and cementing their pieces with reliable veteran presences.

“Our defense,” George said, “…is going to be insane.”