The series remains tied between the Miami Heat and Indiana Pacers as both teams prepare for game 3 in Miami on Saturday night. The focus for the Pacers as Saturday approaches is whether or not their star wing Paul George will be able to play after suffering a concussion in Game 2. Paul George remained limited in practice Thursday, according to the Associated Press.
"The Indiana Pacers kept Paul George out of contact drills Thursday because of a concussion.It’s still uncertain whether he will be cleared to play in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals Saturday in Miami."
George has been averaging 21.5 points and 8.1 rebounds since the playoffs began and Indiana has depended on him through the struggles they’ve dealt with since March. His absence Saturday would likely push Coach Frank Vogel to start Evan Turner in his place. Turner has dealt with issues of his own after sitting Game 1 with strep throat. Paul George is a vital member of the Pacers for not only his own production, but the task of guarding LeBron James.
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Coach Frank Vogel mentioned Thursday that Paul did not describe his symptoms like he did during the post game interview following Game 2, where he mentioned blacking out after returning to the court follow the collision that caused the concussion. The team received heavy scrutiny for failing to spot the concussion after it occurred.