Paul George is still seething over the way his 2021-22 NBA season ultimately played out. Initially, the hopes of the All-Star forward were extremely high for his LA Clippers. Having helped lead them to their first ever Western Conference appearance, George was prepared to take things a step forward.
Although LA was well aware that they would be without star Kawhi Leonard, if George was able to hold up his end of the bargain and secure a playoff berth for LA, there was an outside chance that Leonard would return down the stretch.
Where things went wrong for both LA and Paul George
Ultimately, despite George’s high hopes, LA’s season took several disastrous turns. For starters, George was forced to miss 51 games due to torn ligaments in his elbow. While George would battle his way back to the lineup, he was forced to miss the final game of the play-in tournament due to health and safety protocols.
As the NBA postseason continues to rage on, George refuses to kick his feet up and take time off. The two-way defensive stalwart was recently seen on the court, working out with incoming Oregon freshman Kel’el Ware.
Ware, who stands at a wiry 7,0”, is viewed as a generational talent. In the eyes of many, Ware figures to be a one-and-done prospect out of Oregon before taking his talents to the NBA where he’ll battle George and other stars on a nightly basis.
Without his leading man standing beside him, George produced one of his more explosive seasons last year. In 31 games, George averaged 24.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. Provided everyone remains healthy throughout the season next year, LA loves their chances at winning it all. Seconding that thought, was none other than Hall of Famer Charles Barkley.
In addition to both George and Leonard, LA will enlist the help of newly acquired pieces Robert Covington and Norman Powell. Considering the lofty expectations that have been placed on George’s shoulders, he appears to be getting into the best shape possible to carry what’s expected to be a heavy offensive and defensive load next season.