Paul George is embracing the chance to bring a bit of Irish luck to his new team. On Tuesday, September 15, the seasoned NBA player was officially welcomed as the latest member of the Boston Celtics during a press conference alongside president of basketball operations Brad Stevens, head coach Joe Mazzulla, and fellow offseason acquisition Mike Conley Jr. Although Mitchell Robinson was expected to attend, he was absent due to attending to a personal matter.
George was a key figure in the major trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, a move that deeply affected Celtics fans. Brown was the NBA Finals MVP in 2024 when Boston secured its 18th championship. “I get the situation,” George said. “JB was monumental not only for the team but for the city too. I don’t take this personally; it’s natural for people to feel emotional about that trade.”
A nine-time All-Star, George has faced setbacks from knee injuries over the last two seasons with a team competing in the Celtics’ Atlantic Division. Now 36, he says he feels “great” and doesn’t harbor resentment towards fans who aren’t yet fully embracing him after what he admits was a somewhat unexpected trade. “I’ve moved past the injury hurdles and am physically ready to contribute on the court,” he added. “It’s just about moving forward step by step. Hopefully, our start this year shows fans this is a new team they can be proud of.”
After helping eliminate the Celtics from last year’s playoffs in the first round, George said he’s gradually building rapport with Boston’s star and six-time All-Star, Jayson Tatum. “JT is the superstar here. I’m not here to steal his thunder or change my style—I’m here to support him,” George stressed.
Coach Joe Mazzulla welcomed George and Conley’s addition to the roster. “It’s exciting to have two veteran players with so much experience who can share their knowledge,” he remarked. “They have been through the intensity of NBA seasons and playoffs, and competing against them has taught me and my team a lot. Their history and accomplishments will make us and me better.”
Mike Conley reflected on adapting to Mazzulla’s distinct coaching approach, calling it refreshing. “I thought he was crazy at first—just kidding—but really, his innovative ideas and willingness to try new tactics stand out. It’s a unique perspective on the game,” said the 38-year-old entering his 20th NBA season. Having been a rookie when Boston last won the NBA Finals in 2008, Conley has always held respect for the Celtics franchise.
Conley’s decision to join Boston came quickly, driven by the organization’s commitment to winning. “There aren’t many teams that are genuinely pursuing championships every year. Boston’s culture, history, fan base, and leadership make it a privileged opportunity,” he explained.
George, who’s been in the league for 16 years, has never advanced beyond the conference finals in the playoffs—a stage he reached three times with Indiana and the Clippers. Sharing an era with superstars like Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry, he recognizes the Celtics’ winning atmosphere as a motivating factor. “This is a team with a winning tradition and passionate fans. I still have a chip on my shoulder because I haven’t won a title yet, but I’m a player all about winning and leadership, and I want to prove that with this team,” he said.
Conley echoed a similar sentiment about championship aspirations and leadership. “After 20 years, you grow and understand your different roles during the season. I still have plenty to offer on and off the court, especially leadership. Paul and I both haven’t won championships, so we bring a sense of urgency that can inspire those who have and push the whole team to keep striving every day.”
Fan Take: This trade marks a significant shift in the Celtics’ dynamic, pairing veteran leaders Paul George and Mike Conley with rising star Jayson Tatum, which could transform Boston into a powerhouse team. Basketball fans should watch closely, as this collaboration blends experienced grit with youthful talent, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of the NBA.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
