“They Canceled the Trade, Sent Me to Oklahoma”: Paul George Reveals How the Pacers Ruined a “Crazy” Chance to Play With LeBron James

The NBA has observed a trend amongst the newer generation. When asked about the GOAT, they don’t fall in line with the traditional pick between Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Rather, they head for a pick many didn’t see coming – Paul George. Why is that so? The origins date back to when PG13 was in Indiana. The Pacers forward asserted himself as one of the most explosive two-way forces in the NBA. His road was meant for success, maybe championships too, but one man interfered – LeBron James.

George and James have both been competing since they were a part of the Indiana Pacers and the Miami Heat, respectively. At one point, it got so competitive that the NBA world knew of an impending battle between the two kingdoms that would come in the playoffs. The now Clippers guard came inches away from dethroning the King on several occasions. However, he only joined the list of the many who tried and failed to trump the all-time points leader in the postseason.

After four years of tirelessly working to beat one man, Paul George bid adieu to Indiana and joined forces with Russell Westbrook and the OKC Thunder. He embarked on a journey that saw him be an MVP and DPOY candidate all in the same season. However, his path had been diverted. PG was meant to wear the same colors as his eternal rival.

Paul George was robbed of an opportunity to play with LeBron James

During the recent episode of Podcast P with Paul George, Gilbert Arenas, and the host marvelled over LeBron James‘ dominance of father time. Saying he is a wiser version of his young, thunderous self, they each had classic stories of the King defeating them. However, in the mix of it all, George revealed something astounding, enough to scatter thoughts in your brains.

“I almost got traded to Cleveland,” PG13 revealed to Agent Zero on his podcast. “The deal was damn near done. Indiana pulled out basically like ‘We not going to trade him to the same division’. They pulled out, canceled the trade, and then sent me to Oklahoma. But the deal was damn near done to bring me to Cleveland with Bron,” 

At the time these conversations were ongoing, Paul George was regarded as one of the most talented players in the league. His natural acumen for the sport has been recognized, and so had the potential to be a superstar. As for LeBron James, he had orchestrated the storybook to return to Cleveland with a vow to win a championship, which he did in 2016.

If there was a world where both George and James co-existed, it would likely mean Kyrie Irving would see himself play for the Indiana Pacers. George would have a title on his resume. Maybe they could have won multiple chips together. LeBron James was arguably at his peak in the second stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers. And as mentioned before, PG was on the rise to be a superstar.

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A duo of two of the most electrifying stars in the Eastern Conference could have broken the NBA. A basketball mind like James combined with George’s cerebral brilliance would have been a sight to behold. Unfortunately, due to the business side of things, we and George were robbed of potentially a dominant tandem that could have ruled for years to come.

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Do you think George and LeBron James could have overthrown a Golden State Warriors dynasty? Let us know your views in the comments below.