LeBron, Paul George, and Player Decisions

It was somewhat of a shock on Saturday when news broke that Paul George was re-upping with the Oklahoma City Thunder for three years and a player option. It was surprising enough that George, who just one year prior had announced his intentions to return home and sign with the Lakers when he was a free agent, would have been so swayed by his one, up-and-down season in Oklahoma. Bu the length of the deal was also unexpected: It might have made sense to try again for one or two more seasons and then hit free agency again with a chance to get to a higher max salary[^1]. But to sign a contract that will keep him with the Thunder for three or even four years? This was a complete about-face from last offseason’s demands that forced the Pacers to deal him, and a decision that many did not understand. Some on social media even questioned George’s intelligence and decision-making.