After the arrival of Paul George, the entire NBA is curious to see if the Philadelphia 76ers can finally turn things around next season. After several consecutive campaigns that were interrupted prematurely or derailed by drama, theatrical incidents and the risk of injuries looming, many doubt their ability to have a harvest period.
The nine-time All-Star has snubbed his hometown Clippers to join a 76ers team that fits him like a glove. The club has needed a player of his caliber and archetype for years now, and playing alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey will only enhance his talent, and that goes both ways, too.
Heck, even without having played a single game for the team yet, one longtime veteran thinks he’s way better than former Sixers star James Harden ever was.
Theo Ratliff, who played 16 years in the NBA, including five with the 76ers, delighted to George plays in Philadelphia, even putting him on a pedestal compared to Harden, who infamously was forced out of the franchise.
“The only thing Paul George does that James Harden doesn’t do is play defense.”
There is absolute truth to Ratliff’s statement. George is a four-time All-Defensive Team member, and despite a slight decline as a perimeter stopper at age 34, he remains an undeniable asset in preventing points, especially compared to someone like Harden, a walking defensive liability for the most part.
At 6’4″, George has the style of a natural shot-blocker against teams that use smaller setups. He can easily defend four positions and even hold his own against post players. At his full potential and health, he can be very disruptive, both in team concepts and in one-on-one situations.
Along with his offensive repertoire and shooting, which were all career highs last season, George would allow the 76ers to be even more aggressive when deploying Nick Nurse’s changing tactics.
With the NBA still in a dormant phase, it’s hard to imagine Paul George not fitting well into the team dynamic. It won’t be perfectbut the Philadelphia 76ers should have a huge treat hosting the All-Star next season, and you can take our word for it.
The numbers don’t lie.
Next. Trade Value Rankings. Ranking the 13 Philadelphia 76ers players by trade value.
