It's Pretty Clear That Nobody Seems To Give A Shit What Paul George Does Anymore

Barry Gossage. Getty Images.

One of the things that truly confuses me is the perception of Paul George. He's talked about only in extremes it seems. One of the only players in NBA history to be talked about like he's won an MVP without ever having ya know, won an MVP. He's either at that level or the worst basketball player on the planet given how his track record has gone in the playoffs. That's why I can't shake the feeling that nobody really gives a shit about what George does on the floor anymore. His narrative and story have been written. Here's a prime example

I don't think anyone is going to argue with Durant. Anyone watch a Nets game recently? He looks incredible. No longer can you say he "looks like prime KD". He is prime KD. Absolute monster. What I want to focus on here is Dame. A good week, no doubt. 30/7/5 and a 3-1 record is pretty good. Dropped 40+ in one game, was carried by CJ McCollum in another.

But here's what I mean when I say nobody gives a shit about what Paul George does. This same week? 

24/5/6 on 56/50% splits with 3.7 3PM and a 3-0 record

Not only that, he did it while taking only 13.7 FGA compared to Dame's 19.5. This isn't the first time I had this thought when it comes to Paul George's season either. Quick, if I were to ask you how many players are putting up 25/5/5 on 50/50/90 splits this season and who are they, what would you say?

The answer to that question and the entire list is one person: Paul George

Not only that, but the Clippers are 10-4 while basically matching the Lakers step for step! Where is the MVP buzz this time around for George? Basketball Reference has him 10th in their MVP tracker. Luka, Kawhi, and Khris Middleton sit ahead of him. That feels a little weird. Look, we all got our Paul George jokes off when he was doing shit like this

while joking in a Game 7. We ignore that Kawhi was just as terrible during that collapse and it certainly hasn't stayed with him this season. With George? Nobody cares that he's doing shit nobody else in the league is currently doing. Doesn't matter that he's a huge part of the second best team in the West. Until he comes through in a deep playoff run, it's all for nothing.

That's just how narratives work I guess. It's very similar to what we see with James Harden. With certain players nothing else matters other than what they do in the playoffs. Weirdly that doesn't happen with Giannis or Embiid or any other superstar player who has drastically underachieved in the playoffs, but with George it does. Could it be because he gave himself that terrible nickname? I won't rule that out.

So if nobody else is going to acknowledge what Paul George is currently doing, then I will. I see you Paul. And while others may not think it matters lucky for you I'm someone that believes every single game matters. Good job.