Los Angeles Lakers: 3 Reasons why they should trade for Paul George

By Matt Leaman | Jun 22, 2017

Apr 23, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) points during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Cleveland defeats Indiana 106-102. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 23, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) is guarded by Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Cleveland defeats Indiana 106-102. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Defense

Paul George has established himself as one of the best wing defenders in the NBA. With a wingspan of 7 feet, he is a long athletic defender who can defend on the wing, and on the interior as well. His long arms also make him a great defender against the three-point shot.

Last season, while George was guarding players they shot just 33 percent from three-point range, 34.7 percent from shots greater than 15 feet, and overall just 44 percent. This goes to show how his long physical frame makes it hard for players to make shots over him.

Last season, Lakers ranked 28th in the NBA in total defense. Their defensive rating was 110.6 meaning they gave up 110.6 points per 100 possessions. Opponents shot on average 48 percent from the field against them throughout the season. Teams shot nearly 40 percent from three-point range against them as well. With the addition of George, this number will most certainly decrease with other players stepping up around him. With the Lakers lacking a lock down defender, George can give them that despite it being his most underrated part of his game.

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