Paul George Eager to Contribute Following Trade to Celtics

While noting the emotional impact of Brown’s trade, George emphasized his eagerness to embrace this new opportunity and reestablish himself after recent injury struggles. "I understand my circumstances. I understand how huge JB was, not only for the organization, but here in the city. So, I didn’t take it personal,” George stated. "I feel like I’ve turned that corner of dealing with injuries, and now, I can carry it over to the court."

George joins new teammates Mitchell Robinson and Mike Conley Jr. as part of president of basketball operations Brad Stevens’ strategy to bolster the roster alongside Jayson Tatum. Tatum is preparing for his first full season since suffering an Achilles injury in May 2025. He missed a pivotal Game 7 playoff loss last season due to injury.

Robinson recently won a championship with the Knicks and is expected to back up starting center Neemias Queta, while Conley, set to begin his 20th NBA season, will contribute as a role player.

Stevens highlighted the potential of the team by sharing a metaphor about the TD Garden court being refurbished, symbolizing a fresh start. "It looks like the blank canvas of a court being absolutely redone. Nobody’s stepped on it. And now it’s that year’s team. To write its own chapter," he remarked.

The Celtics have undergone significant changes since winning their 18th title in 2024, and George, with nine All-Star selections and six All-NBA nods, will need to step up and fill some of the void left by Brown. Conley added that both he and George bring urgency, stating, "It’s two guys who haven’t had a chance to win a championship. So, it’s that sense of urgency that maybe reignites that for the guys who’ve been on this team, who’ve already won it."

George underlined his readiness for the challenge, saying, "I think they’re getting someone that’s ready to... kind of still keep us in that contention. Give us a chance to win."