What a summer it has been so far in the NBA. While the NBA season just finished a couple of weeks ago, the offseason hasn't disappointed so far - mainly because of all of the trade talks and NBA draft. We already saw one superstar being traded last week, as Jimmy Butler went from Chicago to the Minnesota Timberwolves. One other guy whose name was often mentioned in a potential trade deal this summer is Paul George. One thing is for sure, Paul George will not be with the Indiana Pacers after the next season. as he already stated he plans to opt out his final year of the contract with the Pacers.
Knowing this, the Pacers are trying to get the best deal they can for Paul George before he leaves the team without anything in return. Cleveland Cavaliers were mentioned as the favorites to land Paul George this summer, and lately, some other teams have been included in the mix.
George teaming up with John Wall?
Considering that George is fresh off his best season in the league as he averaged a career-high 23.7 points per game, and still in his prime, there aren't many teams in the league that wouldn't want him on their roster. Washington Wizards obviously would love if George ended up in DC, and John Wall doesn't shy away from stating that. The All-star point guard, John Wall, spoke to ESPN's The Undefeated on Monday night and said that he is actively recruiting George.
Apparently, the two of them are friends off the court as well, as Wall admitted he is hoping George ends up in Washington. "I am talking to some guys - Paul. I'm trying to see if we can make something happen" Wall said to ESPN's The Undefeated. A source close to ESPN reported that the Wizards and the Pacers already made contacts regarding this trade, but nothing is close to realization right now.
One piece away from beating LeBron and the Cavs
Adding Paul George to their squad would instantly make the Wizards a serious title contender. Last season the Wizards were eliminated in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, as they failed to win a single game on the road in that series. Adding George would give them another option on offense, but on defense also as George is considered as one of the best defenders in the league.
With John Wall as the point guard and Bradley Beal at the shooting guard position, George would fit perfectly into the Wizards starting five. Wall is also aware of this as he stated: "George is a guy that can guard LeBron and go back at LeBron. It's a piece that you're going to need to win. If you don't have a guy who can do that, you don't have a chance." Obviously, Wall is looking at a bigger picture because he knows the only way he can get to the NBA finals, is through the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James. Paul George would definitely help in doing that if, in fact, he ends up in Washington.
