Even after he was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder last summer, rumors about Paul George signing with the Los Angeles Lakers have not died down. They were brought back up earlier this month when Los Angeles cleared even more cap room for free agency this coming summer.
But if we were to ask George’s Thunder teammate, reigning NBA MVP Russell Westbrook, that idea can now be thrown completely out the window.
Westbrook took part in NBA All-Star Media Day in Los Angeles on Saturday, at which point Lakers fans started chanting “we want Paul.”
Here’s Westbrook’s response.
Paul George is about three booths down from Russell Westbrook. When PG comes in, a “We want Paul” chant starts:
Westbrook: “That’s out! Paul ain’t going nowhere. It’s over for that.” pic.twitter.com/mveYpo9u3D— Erik Horne (@ErikkHorne) February 17, 2018
That’s about as clear as it gets. Though, it could also be a case of wishful thinking from Westbrook. George has yet to commit to re-signing with the Thunder this summer. And how the team performs following the All-Star Break will likely play a huge role in his decision-making process
The five-time All-Star is in the midst of one of his best seasons, averaging 22.5 points and shooting at a 43 percent clip from distance. He’s also a top NBA Defensive Player of the Year candidate.