PHILADELPHIA -- As Boston Celtics star Paul George is set to make his return to Philadelphia on Tuesday after two seasons with the 76ers, the impact he made on the group is obvious. The 9-time All-Star was helpful to the youngsters such as VJ Edgecombe and Jabari Walker as he brought his wealth of knowledge to the locker room.
George's two years with the Sixers were marred by injuries and an unfortunate suspension, but his impact in the locker room was certainly felt and he had some big moments on the court as well, specifically in the playoffs.
As George gets set to make his return on Tuesday, Walker opened up on the love the Sixers have for him.
"Yeah, it's like a bittersweet playing against him, you don't want him to have the best game against us,
but you know, besides that, I'm watching him and rooting for him. Great guy," Walker said. "So he was a great energy to have around, and so to see him on the opposite side is going to be a little interesting. Like, even going through scout, it's like, dang, we're really playing against PG now, so, but it’ll be fun. I can't wait to be honest."
In nine games with the Celtics thus far, George is averaging 20.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting 42.5% from deep and still playing his usual top-notch defense. It's that every day routine that has allowed him to succeed at such a high level in this league for so long and his every day example made an impact on Walker.
"Yeah, honestly, just his routine," Walker pondered. "Like, being a star guy and having so many years in the league and having a name, but not needing to overdo it or overcompensate. He just stayed with his routine, and even when there was times he got hot, he didn't really force anything. His game is just so smooth, and I think that complements to how he is as a person, just not forcing anything, and just calm energy."
George and the Celtics will take on the Sixers at 8 p.m. EST on Tuesday night.
This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers' Jabari Walker gives love to Paul George before Philly return
