Paul George has made an immediate impact for the Boston Celtics following a summer trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers. Through the first 10 games, George is averaging 20.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and a career-high 2.3 steals while shooting a career-best 42.5% from three-point range. The Celtics sit 8-2, second in the Eastern Conference behind the 9-2 Sixers.
Accepting a Supporting Role
George acknowledged the emotional attachment fans had to Brown, a two-time Finals MVP, but embraced a complementary role alongside Jayson Tatum. "We have a superstar and that's [Jayson Tatum]," George said. "I'm not here to steal the shine or reinvent who I am. I'm here to help JT." Coach Joe Mazzulla praised George's coachability and high standards, noting his meticulous film study and journaling.
Catch-and-Shoot Excellence
Playing in a system that prioritizes spacing, George has thrived as a catch-and-shoot threat. He is shooting 46% on 5.6 catch-and-shoot three-point attempts per game, both career highs. Among players with at least five such attempts, he ranks second in percentage behind only Stephen Curry (54.9%). His five three-pointers against the Milwaukee Bucks were all catch-and-shoot attempts.
Defensive Impact
George's 2.3 steals per game rank fourth in the league, and his 5.1 deflections per game are third. At 36, he is the oldest player averaging at least five deflections. His defensive instincts have helped the Celtics force a league-sixth opponent turnover rate of 17.4%, a significant increase from previous seasons under Mazzulla.
George will face his former team, the 76ers, on Tuesday in a highly anticipated matchup that also marks Brown's first game against the Celtics.
