Indiana Pacers sign Paul George to max-extension
By Jason Marcum
The Indiana Pacers announced today they have signed All-Star forward Paul George to a multi-year contract extension. Entering his fourth year in the league, George was set to become a free agent soon, so the Pacers opted to sign their rising star now rather than risk losing him later.
Per team policy, no terms of the contract are revealed, but the deal is believed to be a five-year max contract extension that guarantees him between $80 and $90 million and could be worth even more if George reaches an escalator clause.
Last season, George averaged 17.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.8 steals per game. He earned his first nomination to the NBA All-Star Game, was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player and named to the All-NBA third team and the All-Defensive second team.
"“I want to thank the Pacers for believing in me when they drafted me,” said George. “To continue my career with the Pacers was a very easy decision. We have great ownership, a great front office, great fans and I’m blessed with great coaches and great teammates. I use great a lot because that is what this franchise is and I’m hopeful we can be part of great things in the future.”"
President of Basketball Operations Larry Bird on re-signing George:
"“Paul represents not only what our team and franchise is about, but what a professional athlete should be. He strives every day to be the best he can be, as a player, as a teammate, as a person and as a representative of this franchise.”"