Paul George is not available. Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical said that the Indiana Pacers are not shopping George despite trade rumors going around the league.
"I know teams have been calling Indiana, and they're going to ask about Paul George, and the answer is absolutely, positively no," Wojnarowski said. "He's not available, there is no conversation to be had. Don't even make offers to us, we are not moving Paul George," he added.
Paul George is in the third year of his contract that he signed back on September 25, 2013, which will expire in the 18-19 season, the last year being a player option. Veterans are allowed to sign new deals in the third year of their contracts.
Zach Lowe of ESPN.com wrote an article in September about Pacers president Larry Bird's faith and commitment to Paul George. "We want Paul here and we know what it's going to cost and what it's going to take," Bird said.
George is a three-time All-star who is one of the best two-way players in the league today. He is currently averaging 21.8 points and 7.1 rebounds on 44.4 percent shooting, including 39 percent from downtown. He and Myles Turner are considered the core pieces of the Pacers. The 6-foot 11 Turner is just 20 years old but has the potential to be a solid player for years to come. He is currently averaging career-highs in scoring (14.9), rebounds (7.2), blocks (2.4), and field goal percentage (52.7).
Paul George has yet to sign a deal but Bird has implied that he is going all-in with him no matter what. "We do whatever he wants to do," Bird said. "He's proven that he's a max player. He's our best player. If he wants a new contract, whenever he wants it, we'll give it to him," he added.
The Pacers are 13-13 and continue to struggle on the road. They are currently ranked eighth in the Eastern Conference but if things don't improve soon, Bird will likely strike a deal to improve their chances come playoff time.
