Indiana Pacers Paul George Wants Max Contract
By Bryan Rose
In addition to sending forward Danny Granger a get well card, Indiana Pacers star Paul George may want to include a bit of cash since it was an injury to Granger that opened the door for George’s impressive 2012-13 season.
Though George was a starter in 2011-12, he wasn’t the relative focal point of the offense, something he became this past season with Granger missing in action. That lead to the Fresno State product having an All-Star season where he averaged 17.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists and nearly two steals a game on top of some high quality defense.
What happens to Granger’s time in Indiana is an unknown, but it’s clear that George established himself as a premier player this season and when the time comes, he wants to be paid for it.
Speaking to Fox Sports Florida, George talked about his desire to cash in:
"George is a confident guy. He’s hopeful of getting a maximum contract whenever he signs his next deal.“I would hope, George said. “I would hope. Max guys get the job done at this time (the playoffs).’’"
Although signed for another season (as well as a qualifying offer for 2014-15), George will be eligible for a contract extension this Summer which would kick in for the ’14-15 season. A max contract for George would start around $14 million dollars.