The Clippers are gearing up for a title race in a loaded Western Conference, sitting in fourth in the Western Conference at the All-Star Break. Paul George was asked about what player in the league he most wants to see win a title, and he had an eye-opening response, selecting former teammate Russell Westbrook.
George had nothing but praise for Westbrook, suggesting he’d want to see the 34-year-old get a ring before his career winds down, via Arash Markasi of The Sporting Tribune.
Westbrook, of course, was just dealt from the Lakers to the Jazz at the NBA trade deadline. Utah is mulling the potential of buying him out of his contract, which would open the door for the former MVP to sign with any team of his choosing.
The Clippers are among the teams linked to Westbrook in the buyout market, and George’s latest comments will certainly add fuel to the fire.
“Outside of myself, probably Russ,” said George during his NBA All-Star media address. “You know, just as much as he’s been through, as much as they paint a picture of him, he is absolutely one of the best dudes, one of the best people in the league, and it would be nice to see him get a ring.”
George and Westbrook were teammates with the Thunder from 2017-19. The 32-year-old even alluded to the possibility of the Clippers making such a move, suggesting Los Angeles needs a point guard and mentioning Westbrook by name, via Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.
George was surprisingly candid about his desire for Westbrook to eventually win an NBA championship, and the Clippers could possibly present his best chance to do so this season.