Paul George embraces fresh start with Celtics

BOSTON — Paul George is embracing a fresh start with the Boston Celtics as the nine-time All-Star prepares for his first season with the franchise following the blockbuster trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers.

George addressed the reaction surrounding Brown’s departure during his introductory news conference with Boston, acknowledging the former Celtics star’s impact on the franchise.

“It’s fair to live with that emotion,” George said.

“Given what JB (Jaylen Brown) stood for and what he brought in the history. He was a part of raising a banner and winning a championship here. But it’s a new group, new opportunity, and they’re getting someone who’s ready not to fill the shoes. I think I can come in and keep us still in contention.”

Boston officially traded Brown, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, to Philadelphia on July 6 in exchange for George and four future draft picks.

The Celtics received first-round picks in 2028 and 2031 and second-round selections in 2028 and 2030 as part of the deal.

Brown spent 10 seasons with Boston and helped the Celtics win the 2024 NBA championship before being dealt to one of the franchise’s Eastern Conference rivals.

George, meanwhile, arrives in Boston following two injury-plagued seasons with Philadelphia.

Across 78 regular-season games during his two seasons with the 76ers, George averaged 16.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4 assists.

His stint in Philadelphia was disrupted by recurring lower-body issues, including left knee and adductor problems.

George also received a 25-game suspension without pay on Jan. 31, 2026, for violating the terms of the NBA-NBPA Anti-Drug Program.

The suspension further limited his availability during his second season with the 76ers.

Philadelphia still reached the playoffs, with Tyrese Maxey taking on a larger role during stretches when George was unavailable.

George now joins a retooled Celtics roster led by Jayson Tatum and strengthened by the addition of veteran center Mitchell Robinson.

Robinson joined Boston after helping the New York Knicks win the 2026 NBA championship.

For George, the move offers an opportunity to reset after two challenging seasons in Philadelphia and contribute to a Celtics team seeking to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.

“The past couple of years have been rough,” George added.

“Now, I feel really great physically. I’ve worked hard this summer and my body just naturally healed. In Philly, my body was just in a different place. Going into the summer was really the chance to continue working and strengthen my body.”