After Boston Celtics veteran Paul George clapped back at his haters on Media Day, he's reminding fans of what's to come ahead of the 2026-27 regular season. In a 144-106 blowout win against his former team, George made his Celtics debut alongside Jayson Tatum. He finished with 13 points, five rebounds, five steals, and four assists against the Philadelphia 76ers.

George looked back on how he found out about his blockbuster trade to the Celtics in exchange for All-Star Jaylen Brown over the summer, per 98.5 The Sports Hub's Joe Murray.

“It kind of was just thrown out there, and I got the call that there might be a situation where we move you,” George said. “Obviously, I knew where I was at and wanted the best for those guys in Philly. I thought I could have benefitted from a fresh start.”

Although the trade wasn't well-received by fans in Boston, it's starting to grow on people, as the encouraging unofficial debut gave fans a positive glimpse into the future. Ahead of his 17th NBA season, Paul George is excited to show Celtics fans how impactful he can be when healthy, and that he didn't take the initial backlash personally.

I'm, for sure, motivated,” George replied. “Disrespected? No. What JB meant here, it wasn't like a regular piece that was moved. JB is huge here. You think of guys that have worn this jersey, the many numbers that are retired up there; JB very well could be one of those numbers that gets retired. There is an emotional attachment to JB and this city. I wasn't disrespected by it. Quite frankly, it is motivating.

“I do think that I can turn the clock a little bit from me now being able to play a season healthy, and be more of myself than the injured version of myself. More than anything, that's what I'm here to prove: when healthy, I can be back to being a premier player in this league.”

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George says he's always appreciated the Celtics' style of play throughout their recent years, and sees himself adapting to Joe Mazzulla's system.

“I've always been a fan of, from afar, of Boston's play style. 5-out, freedom, flow, great pace, pass-cut movement; it's just been a fun offense to watch those guys play in,” George said. “And now, to be on this side, looking forward to it. I definitely think it's complementary to my game in a system that I can thrive in.”

George and the Celtics will host the Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden on Wednesday.