OKC Thunder vs. Jazz, 3 key takeaways: rivals, free throws and Paul George over everything

How is Paul George like an elephant?

The analogy is an elephant never forgets, so in this regard, Paul George resembles an elephant. This because Paul George had another incredible December performance. That in itself isn’t surprising given the manner in which George has torn through his competition this month.

Rather it reflects PG13 likely carried the memory of 2018, first round playoff series and more specifically the OKC Thunder oust in Game 6.

Not to harbor on this too long, since we’re in a warm fuzzy place today following the fourth consecutive win by OKC. But, in that game specifically, George couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn, shooting 2 of 16 from the field and 0 of 6 from deep. His final stat line read 2 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds, a steal, and 6 turnovers.

In hindsight, fans learned of the myriad of injuries George was dealing with. Every time I imagine 20 ounces of fluid being drained from his arm I picture an 8-ounce glass and think how in the world did PG have almost three of those stored in his elbow — yikes!

I digress — So, to say PG got his payback tonight might be short sighted because season end may bring about other more vital events. Still, his performance tonight was spectacular. In the third quarter alone George outscored the entire Jazz team with 22 points to Utah’s 20.

His final stat line read: 43 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals, a block and shot a highly efficient 15 of 25 from the field and 5 of 10 from deep.

Let’s hope George keeps the angst over game 6 in his conscious memory for the remainder of the season, as it’s certainly serving him well.