OKC Thunder player preview: Healthier Paul George pushes OKC into contention

What’d You Do This Summer?

George spent the first part of his offseason marketing his major free agency decision. Through a three-part series with ESPN, George ultimately decided to come back to OKC and build off his great relationship with Russell Westbrook. Of course, the announcement was highlighted by a surprise house party featuring rap legend Nas.

After free agency died down, George hosted his second annual fishing tournament, bringing out teammates old and new.

Again, George had a knee scope, shortly after the team was eliminated from the playoffs. The “good” news is it wasn’t the same knee George had his horrific injury on during a FIBA exhibition game in the Summer of 2014. This appeared to be a standard procedure, and ideally, won’t have any setbacks like previous OKC Thunder players have experienced.

Highlights/Lowlights from last year

The regular season game that sticks out the most from last season was the Thunder beat down in Oracle against the Warriors. In arguably the most impressive win of the season, George had 38 points on 6-11 threes. He was unconscious, making smart quick decisions while also firing at will. His defense, was more impressive racking up a season-high six steals and an absurd 91 defensive rating.

George’s best playoff game was the first game against Utah. He led the Thunder with 36 points on 8-11 threes. He also added seven rebounds and a steal.

As previously mentioned, George’s biggest stinker of the year game on the final game of the season. In a five point loss to Utah, George scored just six points on 2-16 shooting, and had six turnovers. Maybe part of the reason George stayed is he didn’t want to leave a bad taste in fan’s mouths.

If he had signed with the Lakers this offseason, the narrative would have been, “he checked out” or “I knew he had his sights on Los Angeles from the start. Playoff P should have plenty of chances to make up for this dud in the next few years.