Paul George was once one of the best players on the Oklahoma City Thunder roster. From 2017 to 2019, George helped the Thunder become one of the Western Conference’s top teams. Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony, and he formed a strong trio that made waves in the West.

Unfortunately, it did not work out for George during his time in OKC. His final moment for the Thunder was him defending the Damian Lillard buzzer-beater in the 2019 Playoffs for the Portland Trail Blazers. During his time with OKC, Mark Daigneault was already the G-League affiliate’s head coach and Billy Donovan’s assistant coach.

Daigneault recalls George’s time with the Thunder

Ahead of the game between the Thunder and the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, Daigneault recalled George’s career with OKC. It was a brief stint, but he had a significant impact. 

Westbrook was considered the Thunder’s star, especially with the MVP he won in 2017. However, George was so good that the Thunder had two superstars who were capable of winning the MVP. George was a legitimate MVP candidate in 2019, but it did not pan out, as Giannis Antetokounmpo won that award.

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Daigneault recalled how he was impressed every time he saw George play for the Thunder. As an assistant coach at the time, Daigneault got to interact with George often, so he has a special affinity for George’s game.

“Cool guy, and he had great years here, he’s a great player. Two-end player, great size, silky smooth offensive game. Aesthetically pleasing offensive game. The ball just goes in the net nicer when he shoots it. He’s a great offensive player who also plays defense. He’s had a great career, he’s playing well,” Daigneault said about George’s time in OKC. 

While George is not in his prime anymore, Daigneault is still wary of him ahead of the Thunder’s game against the 76ers. Most people would be looking out for Tyrese Maxey, but Daigneault is not counting out players like George, who could surprise people.

The Thunder are overwhelming favorites, but they do need to bounce back after their third loss of the season to the San Antonio Spurs. If they want to maintain their status as favorites, the Thunder must win against the 76ers.

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