Paul George talks about the ‘key’ to playing alongside Russell Westbrook

Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman

Superstar forward Paul George has had to make a massive transition from the norm during the 2017-18 NBA season. George went from being the first option and the star attraction with the Indiana Pacers to a second or third option with the Oklahoma City Thunder while playing alongside Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony.

The dynamic trio of superstars has yet to get on the right track in Oklahoma City with the team at .500 with 14 games in the books this season. George, who is averaging a team-high 21.9 points per game, recently talked about what he needs to do to be successful playing with the reigning NBA MVP, via Pro Basketball Talk.

“I think just trying to get out ahead of him as much as possible, I think, is key,” George said. “That way, when he’s making plays in full court, I’m already in position ready to receive the ball instead of catching up, getting my feet ready, trying to decide what to do. I’m ready to shoot or attack at that point.”

Despite losing seven of their first 11 games this season, the Thunder have started to turn things around with three straight wins and the big three of Anthony, Westbrook, and George potentially figuring out a balance between the superstars.

The Thunder are currently sitting in ninth place in the highly competitive Western Conference and would miss the playoffs if they started today. Only time will tell if this superstar trio pans out or if the team ends up heading in the other direction with Oklahoma City potentially deciding to part ways George at the NBA trade deadline before he can leave for a team like the Los Angeles Lakers in NBA free agency.