Paul George addressed the circumstances surrounding his arrival in Boston and his plans for the 2026-27 season during his first press conference as a member of the Celtics on Tuesday, September 15.
George arrived in Boston as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers. Brown had finished sixth in 2025-26 MVP voting after averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists for a Celtics team that went 56-26.
George acknowledged that Boston fans had an emotional connection to Brown but said he did not take the reaction to the trade personally.
“Listen, I understand the circumstances,” George said. “I understand how huge JB was not only for the organization but here in the city. So I didn’t take it personal.”
The 36-year-old forward instead views the move as an opportunity to join a franchise he has long admired.
“I think we got an unbelievable roster, unbelievable coach obviously, front office,” George said. “I’ve always admired everything Boston has done and stood for. So, I think coming in with that attitude and that mindset to win, you know, I’m all on.”
George also made clear that he does not view his role as replacing Brown. Instead, he plans to complement Jayson Tatum, who is expected to return fully healthy after playing just 16 games last season because of his Achilles injury.
“I’m not here to, you know, necessarily steal the shine or try to reinvent who I am,” George said. “I’m here to help JT and he’s the guy.”
George believes his experience playing alongside another superstar wing can help him adapt to his new role. He also highlighted Boston’s spacing and ball movement as elements that should suit his game.
“From afar obviously not being a part of the group yet, they’ve always been high IQ. Really good at spacing,” George said. “I feel that’s kind of how I’ve always played the game.”
The eight-time All-Star enters Boston after two difficult seasons from a health standpoint. He played 41 games with Philadelphia in 2024-25 and 37 last season, averaging 16.2 and 17.3 points, respectively.
George said he feels considerably better heading into the new season after using the summer to strengthen his body and knee.
“It’s almost like a rebirth or reborn again,” George said. “I was able to train again in a summer, which my summers the past couple years were dedicated to rehabbing.”
He added that he has not felt this good entering a season in a long time.
“I feel great. I feel amazing,” George said. “I haven’t felt like this in a very long time coming into a season and that alone is a win for me.”
George also reflected on his career motivation. Despite 16 NBA seasons, he has never won a championship, and he acknowledged that remains a source of motivation as he enters his first season with Boston.
“I haven’t won yet, so I’m on the other side of that,” George said. “The chip on my shoulder is I believe I’m a winning player.”
The Celtics also added 38-year-old Mike Conley, who described Boston’s winning culture and championship history as major factors in his decision to sign. Conley has yet to win an NBA championship as well, giving Boston two highly experienced additions with a stated desire to pursue their first title.
