Paul George returns in style as Pacers torch Heat

MANILA, Philippines – Indiana Pacers All-Star Paul George made a return from an eight-month absence and scored 13 points in 15 minutes to help lead his team past the Miami Heat, 112-89, on Monday, April 6 (PH time). 

George returned after breaking his leg in a Team USA exhibition game in Las Vegas. Wearing his new number 13 jersey, George went 5-of-12 from the field and hit a couple of jumpers against Miami’s defense. 

George’s first shot came off a screen-and-roll with teammate Roy Hibbert. Though the Pacers forward had minimal space to leap and take a jumper, it was more than enough for him to sink a long-two and get the boisterious Indiana crowd up to their feet.  

George did have some sloppy moments, like when he blew a breakaway layup in the first period which he called “embarrassing.” He also looked slower with his laterals in some play and cautious with his movement. Nonetheless, such problems exist when making a return from an injury such as the one George suffered, and overall he played well all things considered.

Most of George’s other points came via isolations and pick-and-rolls, and he made Miami pay by sinking three 3-pointers in total in front of 18,165 fans in attendance. 

The Pacers are now 34-43 and have taken over the Heat for ninth place in the Eastern Conference Standings. They’re currently a game back of the Boston Celtics for the final playoff spot with five games left in their schedule.

“It was everything that I expected,” George said about his return.

– Rappler.com