Paul George responds to Celtics fans after trade

Paul George knows exactly what it means to arrive in Boston in place of Jaylen Brown. Celtics fans made their frustration clear after the offseason trade with Philadelphia, but the new No. 2 alongside Jayson Tatum has no intention of ignoring the significance of the player who came before him.

During his introductory press conference, George addressed the subject immediately. Brown wasn’t simply one of the team’s leaders: he grew up in Boston, helped the Celtics win the 2024 championship and was named Finals MVP. For that reason, PG completely understands the fans’ reaction.

I understand the situation. I know how important JB has been not only to this organization, but also to the city. I didn’t take it personally. In fact, it’s only right that the fans have an emotional connection to that trade

Paul George

For George, the bigger point is different. At 36 and coming off two difficult seasons in Philadelphia, Boston represents above all an opportunity to prove he can still make a major impact at the highest level.

George: “I’ve put the physical issues behind me”

The last few seasons have raised plenty of questions about the former Clippers star’s health. In his two years with the 76ers, George appeared in just 78 regular-season games, dealing primarily with several issues involving his left knee.

Now George says he has finally put the most difficult period behind him.

The last two years have been difficult, especially with the injuries. But now I feel really good again. I believe I’ve gotten past that period and recovered physically. Now I can bring all of that onto the court as well

Paul George

And that is probably the Celtics’ biggest gamble. Boston doesn’t need George to become the new Jaylen Brown, but rather to get back close to the player who earned nine All-Star selections and six All-NBA honors.

PG himself wanted to make the distinction clear:

It’s a new group and a new opportunity. I’m not here to fill JB’s shoes or simply replace what he did. But I believe I can come here and help us remain competitive, giving us a chance to win

Paul George

George and Tatum: two wings who need to coexist

The prospect that seems to excite George the most is playing alongside Jayson Tatum, who will enter his first full season since suffering a torn Achilles in May 2025.

For PG, that primarily means not having to be the focal point of the offense at all times and being able to make greater use of his off-ball game alongside another perimeter superstar. At least on paper, that could allow Boston to maintain tremendous versatility on both ends of the floor despite Brown’s departure.

George isn’t the only new face, either. Brad Stevens also added Mike Conley and Mitchell Robinson, attempting to significantly reshape a team that won the 18th championship in franchise history just two years ago.

Conley, entering his 20th NBA season, sees the hunger he and George bring as something that could help a group in which several players have already won a championship.

We’re two guys who haven’t had the opportunity to win a championship yet. That sense of urgency can maybe reignite something in the guys on this team who have already done it

Mike Conley

For George, the challenge will inevitably be greater. He doesn’t have to be Jaylen Brown, and he is the first to say he doesn’t want to present himself as Brown’s replacement. But he will have to prove that, at 36 and after two injury-plagued seasons, there is still a version of Paul George capable of playing alongside Tatum and helping Boston compete for a championship.