NBA Player Power Rankings: Change of the Guard

Mar 16, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) steals the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the third quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Pelicans defeated the Kings 123-108. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 15, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) looks to pass the ball while Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart (36) defends in the second half of the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana Pacers defeat Boston Celtics 103-98.Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

14. Paul George, Indiana Pacers

Last Rank: No. 13

Position: Forward

Age: 25

Slash Line: .414/.379/.859

Season Averages: 35.3 MPG, 23.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 2.7 3PM

The Indiana Pacers have entirely transformed the identity of the roster. Previously known as a rugged defensive team that produced from the inside out, the Pacers have flooded the perimeter with sharpshooting wings and scorers who can create in the half court.

Intriguing as Indiana’s roster may be, the team lives and dies by what Paul George is able to provide.

Despite the inconsistent nature of both his and his team’s season, George is No. 19 in the NBA in Win Shares. He’s averaging 23.8 points on a slash line of .431/.397/.873 when the Pacers win, and drops to 22.8 points on a slash line of .397/.362/.840.

The production may be similar, but George’s efficiency or lack thereof generally dictates the outcome of Indiana’s games.

He’s struggled with his shot in recent months, but he’s recently begun to find his stroke again. After lighting the competition up at the All-Star Game, his confidence has been restored and he’s less tentative as a scorer.

Indiana needs George to be at his best for the postseason, but they shouldn’t be worried; he plays up to the level of his competition.

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