Paul George doesn't blame David West for turning down $11 million
Paul George and David West spent four memorable years as teammates with the Indiana Pacers. They battled side by side in two straight Eastern Conference finals, and helped forge a winning culture in a state that loves good basketball.
But last summer, West famously declined his $12 million player option in favor of a veteran's minimum deal (for a little over $1 million) with the San Antonio Spurs. The news shocked the NBA, but, looking back, George is hardly surprised his former teammate did what he did:
Asked if he feels good for @D_West30, Paul George joked, "I feel bad for him, he gave up $11 million to go win a championship." #Spurs
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) March 7, 2016
P. George says @D_West30's biggest example is he was in position to take lesser role in pursuit of title cuz he's "set financially." #Spurs
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) March 7, 2016
Why is West so admirable here? He followed his gut and did what he felt was right. Forget about the money or the desire to win a championship, West based his decision on his own happiness.
That's awesome, and good for George to support his former teammate's call.
@David_West30 on if being w/ #Spurs has been worth $11 mill he walked away from in Indy: "Probably more. It's been everything
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) March 7, 2016
for me."
Both players are in pretty good spots. The 35-year-old West is averaging 17.1 minutes per game on the second-best team in the NBA. He's headed to the playoffs and may even win a title. He has no regrets:
Meanwhile, George scored 41 points in last month's All-Star Game and has bounced back from a horrific leg injury to become one of the league's most influential two-way talents. He hasn't been the most efficient star, but the Pacers wouldn't be in the thick of the playoff hunt if it weren't for all George brings to the table on a nightly basis. He's averaging a career-high 23.7 points and 4.2 assists.
Bringing it back to West, the 13-year veteran seems to be as happy as he's ever been, and his decision-making process will hopefully be one more players follow in the future.
