Paul George is many months away from being a free agent, but since people just could not stop themselves from cooking up rumors about the Oklahoma City Thunder forward's chances of going to the Los Angeles Lakers, it has become a topic that is constantly looming over the swingman’s head.
Speaking to a group of reporters, including Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints, following Thursday’s 127-117 road win over the L.A. Clippers, George tried to clarify that his willful expressions of his fondness for the city of Los Angeles should not be taken as a sign that he is going to join the Lakers once this season is all over.
“I can have love for somewhere. I’m from here. That’s a no-brainer. But I’m going to be honest. It has nothing to do with me wanting to be in Oklahoma or me not wanting to be with Oklahoma. The fact of the matter is that I’m from here and I love being here, but that has nothing to do with my decision.”
Paul George did not give anything away from that statement, but he threw the media a bone. He also gave fans in attendance during the Thunder-Clippers game a show, as he put up 31 points on 12-of-16 shooting from the field to go with six rebounds.
The increased attention given to George on Thursday was just expected given that the game was in Los Angeles, a city thirsty of a superstar since Kobe Bryant decided to walk away from the NBA. George could be that guy with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, though the Thunder's versatile forward would rather cross the bridge when he gets there.
“I’m going to wait until I get to that point. We will sit down and have that conversation later. I’m enjoying where I’m at. I’m enjoying this transition being here.”