Indiana Pacers: Paul George Silences Critics Once Again

The Indiana Pacers were able to take a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Washington Wizards on Sunday night, and Paul George had a huge game. George scored 39 points on 12-of-20 shooting, including 7-of-10 from behind the 3-point arc and 8-of-10 at the free-throw line. He also chipped in 12 rebounds and two steals in the winning effort, and played excellent defense all night long.

George has been one of the most loved and hated players that has been given a “superstar” title this season. There would be stretches where he would struggle with his shot and look like a very average player, but there were also moments that he carried his team on his back and dominated the opposition.

Sunday night was a statement game from George, and it was sent directly to his critics. There have been plenty of people over the last couple weeks saying that true superstars come through when their team needs them, and that George was failing to prove that he was worthy of having the title. He showed every offensive aspect of his game last night, and his defense and rebounding were exceptional as well.

Indiana has been slowly but surely regaining their identity, and has won five out of their last six games. Part of that has to do with the leadership and play of George, who has been nearly a double-double machine throughout the playoffs. He has averaged 23.9 points, 10.7 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.4 steals per game during the postseason, and has had two games where he scored 30 points or more.

There is no denying the potential that George has, and that he deserves his “superstar” title. He has proven that he is the best player on a championship caliber team, and that he is able to carry them on his shoulders to big wins like last night. The inconsistency issue is certainly something that needs work, but he is a superstar for his team more often than not.

Overall, the Pacers are extremely excited to try and finish off the series on their home floor on Tuesday night. If they do want to take care of business and end the series early, they will need another heavy dosage of scoring from George. He has yet another chance to prove his “superstar” title, and silence his critics yet again.

Evan Massey is a Staff Writer for HoopsHabit.com. Follow Evan on Twitter at @Massey_Evan.