Paul George aims to help Jayson Tatum reach MVP level

In a detailed discussion featured on Basket USA, nine-time NBA All-Star Paul George addressed his recent trade to the Boston Celtics, outlining his role as a supporting veteran alongside star forward Jayson Tatum and stating his intention to help push his new teammate into the league’s MVP conversation. George arrives in Boston following an offseason deal that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, altering the structural hierarchy of the reigning Eastern Conference contenders.

Embracing the Supporting Role Beside Jayson Tatum

Addressing the shifting dynamics within the franchise, George made it clear that he understands the team belongs to Tatum. The 36-year-old veteran drew parallels to his previous stint playing alongside Kawhi Leonard with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he maintained a high level of production while sharing the floor with another primary option. I played with another superstar in Kawhi Leonard, right? And I was still an All-Star while playing alongside him, George said in a podcast appearance noted by Basket USA. So I don’t have to be the patron, but I know what value I bring. Additional reporting from BasketNews corroborated his comments regarding his adaptability, noting that George is fully prepared to function as a versatile secondary option who can ease the offensive burden on Tatum.

Motivated by Fan Skepticism and the Departure of Jaylen Brown

The blockbuster transaction that brought George to Boston in July in exchange for fan-favorite Jaylen Brown and multiple draft picks initially sparked mixed reactions across the city. According to reporting from Boston.com, some supporters pointed toward George’s age and recent knee injuries as potential concerns for the franchise. Speaking with Joe Murray on 98.5 The Sports Hub, George rejected the notion that he felt disrespected by the initial backlash, framing the external doubt as fuel for his upcoming campaign. I’m for sure motivated. Disrespected, no, George said. He acknowledged the deep emotional attachment Boston fans hold toward Brown, whose jersey could one day hang in the rafters, but emphasized his desire to prove that he remains a premier player when healthy.

Targeting Health and a Stronger Postseason Finish

Injuries have limited George’s availability in recent years, as he last played more than 41 games in a single season during the 2023-24 campaign with the Clippers. After managing recurring left knee issues during his subsequent two-season tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers—where he averaged 16.2 points in 2024-25 and 17.3 points in 2025-26—George stated that he is looking for a fresh start. He expressed a personal goal of appearing in 50 to 60 games this season to enter the playoffs in peak condition. During his most recent postseason run with Philadelphia, George averaged 16.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.0 assists across 11 playoff games, shooting 45.8 percent from the field and 49.3 percent from beyond the arc.

Versatility on the Court and the Goal of an MVP Campaign

Despite entering the twilight of his 16-year NBA career, George insisted he retains the multifaceted skill set required to impact winning on both ends of the floor. I know that I can be a 20-point scorer if the situation requires it, George explained. I know that I can defend and lock up the best player if needed. I know I can go up in the air and grab rebounds when it counts. By providing floor spacing, elite perimeter defense, and veteran playmaking, George hopes to unlock another level for Tatum. Again, Jayson is the boss, George reiterated. But I want to be there to help him become the best version of himself and be part of the discussion for the MVP title.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paul George and the Boston Celtics

What was the exact trade that brought Paul George to the Boston Celtics?

Paul George and several draft picks were traded to the Boston Celtics from the Philadelphia 76ers in July in exchange for standout guard Jaylen Brown, restructuring the core of the Boston roster ahead of the season.

How many games did Paul George play during his final season in Philadelphia?

Official statistics show that Paul George appeared in 37 games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2025-26 NBA season, averaging 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per contest while shooting 43.9 percent from the field.

What did Paul George average during the 2025-26 postseason?

During an 11-game playoff run with Philadelphia that included a first-round series against Boston, George averaged 16.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while converting 49.3 percent of his three-point attempts, as reported by Boston.com.