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LA Clippers 2019-2020 player profiles: Paul George

By Ryan Snellings

LOS ANGELES, CA - JULY 24: Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and his daughter look at a mural which was unveiled after the introductory news conference at Green Meadows Recreation Center on July 24, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. at Green Meadows Recreation Center on July 24, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - JULY 24: Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and his daughter look at a mural which was unveiled after the introductory news conference at Green Meadows Recreation Center on July 24, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. at Green Meadows Recreation Center on July 24, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 24: New Clippers players Paul George, left, and Kawhi Leonard attend a press conference at the Green Meadows Recreation Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday, July 24, 2019. George and Leonard were introduced to the media and fans as the newest members of the Clippers. (Photo by Scott Varley/MediaNews Group/Daily Breeze via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 24: New Clippers players Paul George, left, and Kawhi Leonard attend a press conference at the Green Meadows Recreation Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday, July 24, 2019. George and Leonard were introduced to the media and fans as the newest members of the Clippers. (Photo by Scott Varley/MediaNews Group/Daily Breeze via Getty Images) /

Defense

Arguably PG’s biggest calling card is his defense. For the 2018-19 season, he finished second in defensive win shares in the league among players who played more than 65 games. He led the league in steals with 2.2 per game. As a four time All-Defensive Team member, there’s no denying that his on-ball defense is elite level.

What doesn’t get noticed is his off-ball defense.

According to NBA Stats’ hustle data, George led the league in two hustle categories last season: deflections and loose balls recovered. Both show his defensive awareness and how much he prides himself on that end even when he’s not directly involved in the play.

His ability to get into passing lanes and disrupt ball movement is what separates him from the rest of the league.

On the Clippers, this will be extremely important. Kawhi will likely draw the top defensive assignment, leaving PG to guard the opponents second best wing. Given his ability to play in the passing lane, the two look to form an extremely deadly duo. Pair this with Patrick Beverley who will be hounding opposing guards and there’s no question the Clippers will have one of the toughest defenses in the NBA.

Defensive guru Rex Kalamian will have an exciting task ahead of him designing defensive schemes to take advantage of the trio’s abilities.

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