Paul George said winning an NBA championship is his only priority in his 17th season after the Boston Celtics beat the Orlando Magic 108-97 on Sunday, November 1.
“I don’t care about scoring. I don’t care about whatever it is. It’s all about winning,” George said, per Bobby Krivitsky. “I’m gonna do whatever I can to win. That’s the one thing I’m seeking.”
George scored 17 points, grabbed six rebounds and dished out eight assists in 33 minutes as Boston secured its fifth consecutive victory to improve to 5-1. He shot 6-of-14 from the field, including 3-of-10 from three-point range, and added two steals and two blocks.
The veteran also discussed his responsibility during the fourth-quarter minutes when Jayson Tatum is on the bench. Tatum led Boston with 32 points, seven assists and four rebounds, making 15 of his 17 free throws.
“I do take those minutes very important,” George said. He explained that Tatum carries several responsibilities for the Celtics, from creating shots and playmaking to defending and rebounding.
“He’s doing everything we need of him,” George said. “So, if I can make it easy for him, and he doesn’t have to press when he comes back in, ultimately, I’m trying to win those minutes for him.”
George’s three-pointer with 1:32 remaining gave Boston an 11-point lead and helped put the game out of reach.
The Celtics also received 12 points from Luka Garza and 10 from Baylor Scheierman.
Orlando cut the deficit to three points entering the fourth quarter after a 12-0 run, but Boston held the Magic to 23 points in the final period. Anthony Black and Tristan da Silva scored 23 apiece for Orlando, which fell to 2-4 and remained winless at home through three games.
Boston visits the Houston Rockets on Monday night.
