Player grades: OKC Thunder drop Jazz via aggressive, motivated effort

Certainly, the taste of losing in the first round was also on Paul George‘s mind. In retrospect fans learned PG13 played with copious ailments. In spite of that, the fact he shot 2 of 16 in the close out game surely didn’t sit well with the superstar this offseason.

This was evident immediately simply via George’s activity as he jumped in the passing lanes for an early steal resulting in an easy basket forcing Quin Snyder to take a time out.

George’s defense this season is so solid we almost overlook it. Or perhaps he makes it look far easier than it is. To that end, I was shocked he had 31 points by the end of the third quarter because they came so quietly and efficiently. PG13 shot (8 of 10 from field, 10 of 12 from line and a sparkling five of six from deep.

In addition, George grabbed three rebounds, dished three assists, had four steals and was a plus +17.

AND — he did this all in just three quarters.

Late in the contest he banged knees with Royce O’Neal and stayed down on the ground wincing. Hopefully the extra quarter of rest (and some ice) will assuage any lingering after effects.