Paul George is having himself a season. The LA Clippers’ shooting guard needed this level of play after a disappointing showing in last year’s playoffs that left him heavily criticized by fans and media alike.
George’s 24.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, career-high 5.5 assists, and 1.2 steals are great, especially given that he’s in the midst of a 50/40/90 season (50.8%, 47.8%, 90.5%). It’s exactly what the Clippers needed out of the All-Star. More importantly, however, is how he’s handling himself off the court.
Paul George is handling this season with the LA Clippers with class.
Look no further than last night. After an extremely efficient 36 point performance, George was asked about Jared Dudley’s book in which George is called out for talking too much last season, PG opted for the mature response.
"“God bless him. God bless you, Jared Dudley. I don’t know what it is, dudes love throwing my name in stuff. But God bless you Jared.”"
Isn’t that just the best possible response? Seriously. What else can Jared Dudley say to follow that?
It’s not just that comment last night though. PG has been great with the media all season.
Just listen to that interview. The TNT crew (mainly Shaq and Chuck) tried to bait him with several questions but PG just stayed the course and gave clear and fair answers and even waited patiently as they seemingly forgot they were in the middle of an interview.
Following a scuffle with Devin Booker and Chris Paul, George just laughed off the situation and noted that he just sees a lot of people still living in the past.
That’s something he’s not doing. George understands that he didn’t play up to his potential last season and promised a much better outing this season. So far, he has delivered. Sure, the shots will inevitably come as the year goes on, especially as we get to the playoffs but with every quote we get from PG, it seems like his mind is right for the task at hand.
Yes, we still want to see him perform in the postseason but as long as he keeps his head straight like this all season, the LA Clippers, fans, and media won’t have anything to worry about.