In a candid episode of the “Point Forward” podcast, former NBA forward Evan Turner did not mince words when discussing his former teammate, Paul George. Turner, who shared the court with George during their time with the Indiana Pacers, expressed his skepticism about George’s reliability, particularly in high-stakes situations.
“Paul George has a history of not showing up when it counts, which is an understatement,” Turner remarked. He went on to question George’s mental fortitude, suggesting that media rumors seem to unduly influence his former teammate’s performance and mindset.
The conversation took a more critical turn as Turner pondered the potential pairing of George with Joel Embiid, should George join the Philadelphia 76ers. “Imagine how soft that team would be with both George and Embiid,” he said, implying that despite their individual talents, the duo might not deliver the expected results. Turner drew a parallel to the legendary combination of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, hinting that while George and Embiid could be one of the most skilled pairings since then, their impact might fall short due to inconsistency and injuries.
Turner’s comments have stirred up the NBA community, as they come at a time when George’s future with the Los Angeles Clippers hangs in the balance. With George’s player option for the 2024-25 season approaching, speculation about his next move is rampant, and Turner’s remarks add an intriguing layer to the ongoing narrative.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on George’s decision, and whether Turner’s blunt assessment will hold any weight in the grand scheme of George’s career trajectory.
“PG has a history of not showing up. I never met a human that would let a media rumor drive his energy or personality… You know how soft that team gonna be if him and Embiid go together? It’ll probably be one of the most disappointing, like just unbelievably talented. It’d probably be the most skilled duo ever since Shaq and Kobe. That’s an understatement… Embiid would be hurt, and PG gonna be Paul though. I don’t like saying that, but that’s the truth, G.”
