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NBA Player Power Rankings: Three-Quarter Season Awards

By Maxwell Ogden

Feb 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts with forward Draymond Green (23) after making a three point shot against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts with forward Draymond Green (23) after making a three point shot against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 7, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) drives to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (9) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats San Antonio 99-91. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) drives to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (9) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats San Antonio 99-91. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

13. Paul George, Indiana Pacers

Award: All-NBA Third Team

Last Rank: No. 14

Position: Small Forward

Age: 25

Slash Line: .415/.380/.860

Season Averages: 35.5 MPG, 23.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 2.7 3PM

Paul George has been troublingly inconsistent, but that’s to be expected of a player going through their first full season following a severe leg injury. When George has found a rhythm, he’s caught fire in unfathomable ways.

This past week was a shining example of how dangerous a player George can be when he finds his groove.

George opened this week by annihilating the Charlotte Hornets’ defense with 35 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, five steals, and one block on 11-of-23 shooting. One day later, he recorded 38 points and six rebounds on a mark of 13-of-22 from the floor in a 100-99 win over the Washington Wizards.

George finished the week by tallying 23 points in a 100-91 upset of the San Antonio Spurs.

George has battled erratic stretches, but it’s clear to all who watch him that he’ll be in the Top 5 discussion this time next season. He’s becoming more physically ready by the month, and should benefit if or when the Indiana Pacers sign a second star.

George is still an elite defensive player who can score at an elite level, and that puts him in rare territory.

Next: The Enigma