Paul George called this “one of the most frustrating seasons I’ve been a part of.” He bemoaned the Pacers’ place as “the little brother of the league.” He pushed back against Indiana fans booing their own team. He expressed frustration about being kept in the dark on trade discussions before the deadline. Just last week, he told Zach Lowe of ESPN the Pacers lack an identity.
This all ought to strike fear into the Pacers, with George headed toward free agency in 2018 and Lakers rumors swirling.
How does Indiana convince George to stay?
One possibility: Signing Jazz forward Gordon Hayward, who has a player option after this season.
Lowe:
My best guess: George doesn’t have a particular affinity for Hayward, but just wants a better supporting cast, and Hayward – who was born and grew up in Indiana and played at Butler – appears more attainable than other stars.
But the Jazz are better than the Pacers and can offer more money. If he makes an All-NBA team, Hayward might not hit the market at all. If he does become a free agent, the Celtics – with former Butler coach Brad Stevens – loom as a bigger threat to poach the forward.
This is an extreme longshot and only raises more questions about what the Pacers can actually do to keep their superstar.