The Journey of Paul George from Pacers' 10th Pick in 2010 NBA Draft to Clippers

Paul George, a future All-Star and now a key player for the Los Angeles Clippers, was selected 10th by the Indiana Pacers in the 2010 NBA Draft. This selection has proven to be one of the most impactful of that particular draft class. George has transformed from a promising rookie to a major player in the NBA, with his career spanning multiple teams and showing his versatility and skill on the court.

The Pacers' Selection

In the 2010 NBA Draft, the Pacers made a strategic pick that would change the trajectory of their franchise. Paul George, a highly regarded prospect coming out of the University of Texas, was deemed one of the best players in the draft. His selection in the 10th position was a smart move by the Pacers, as George would go on to have a successful seven-year tenure with the team. In his rookie season, George struggled, averaging 8 points and 4 rebounds per game with a field goal percentage of 45% and a three-point percentage of 30%. However, he showed potential and improved significantly the following season, adding 39% accuracy from beyond the arc.

Cooldown at Pacers and Eventually Thunder

After a shaky start, Paul George's performance improved, and he was named to the All-Star team four times between 2012 and 2015. However, his career was derailed by a serious injury, known as the "freak USA injury," which took a toll on his leg. Despite his best efforts, George could not fully recover from this injury, and his performance suffered as a result. Despite this setback, he still managed to secure two more All-Star spots with the Pacers before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the offseason of 2019.

Record-Breaking Standout in the NBA

During his time with the Pacers, Paul George established himself as one of the top players in the league, with nine Pacers players being selected in the top 10 of their respective drafts. His two All-Star seasons with the Pacers were a testament to his outstanding abilities. After leaving the Pacers, George further cemented his legacy with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he teamed up with fellow All-Star Kawhi Leonard in a blockbuster trade.

Clubs That Shaped Paul George's Career

Paul George's career journey is marked by the impact of several NBA teams. His stint with the Pacers was essential in his development, while his time with the Thunder brought him even more exposure and success. Now, he is part of the Clippersrsquo; roster, a team that continues to lean on his leadership and skills. Throughout his career, George has been a constant force in basketball, showcasing his resilience and talent on the court.

Impact of Weak Draft Class

Interestingly, the 2010 NBA Draft was perceived as a weak class, but George was able to stand out. Interestingly, the same draft class also brought in notable players like Cousins (5th pick by the Kings) and Wall (1st overall pick). Unfortunately, both players' careers have been marked by devastating injuries, which deprived the NBA audience of their full potential. However, George's journey shows that careful selection and strategic development can lead to long-lasting impact even in what is considered a weak draft class.

Overall, Paul George’s journey from the Pacers to the Clippers is a story of resilience, hard work, and adaptability. His career trajectory serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that the path to success in professional basketball is not always linear but can be a mix of highs and lows.