NBA Rumors: Paul George makes it clear he is “a Pacer”

Paul George’s name has stirred rumors for months and he is trying to tone them down.

Indiana  Pacers star Paul George has been linked with the Los Angeles Lakers for a long time now. If it’s not the Lakers, it seems there’s growing sentiment in the popular opinion that he’ll be with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the near future.

Despite these rumors, George doesn’t hit the market until the end of the 2017-2018 season. That hampers any chances that he can sign where he wants — because he can’t. Additionally, George spoke of situation on Thursday, seemingly putting to rest notions that he’s thinking about forcing his way to Cleveland or anywhere else.

In an interview with Nate Taylor of the Indianapolis Star, George said:

"“I’m under contract as a Pacer. That’s all that needs to really be known. I’m here. I’m a Pacer. There’s no way around that. This is my team, my group & this is where I’m at.”"

George’s words today must have been disappointing for Lakers fans. Los Angeles has been struggling for a few years and hoped a blockbuster deal for George would bring them back to the NBA Playoffs. Meanwhile, they still are the frontrunner to score Paul George in free agency after next season.

Of course, let’s not skate over the fact that George didn’t enlighten us on his plans for the years beyond 2017-18. That’s the part everyone will read into, unfairly discounting the fact that George seems to be in on Indiana this upcoming season and wants to try to win while he’s still there.

While he’s still there. That’s key phrasing.

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The four-time NBA All-Star is coming off one of the best seasons of his career. He averaged 23.7 points per game, which is a career high. Additionally, he pulled down 6.6 rebounds and passed for 3.3 assists per game.