Paul George is heading back to Philadelphia for the first time since the blockbuster trade that sent him to the Boston Celtics and Jaylen Brown to the 76ers. However, the veteran forward believes Philadelphia fans should have at least one reason to appreciate his departure.

George recently joked that he helped the 76ers land a future piece in Brown, suggesting that could influence the reception he receives Tuesday night.

“In some ways, I helped land them [the Sixers] a future piece [Jaylen Brown]. So with that, I'm not sure how the reception will be,” George said.

"In some ways, I helped land them [the Sixers] a future piece [Jaylen Brown]. So with that, I'm not sure how the reception will be."

Celtics' Paul George on what kind of reception he thinks he'll get from the Philly crowd tonight.

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— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) November 10, 2026

It's an interesting perspective from George, especially considering how well the trade appears to be working out for both organizations.

Boston has gotten strong production from George, who has helped elevate the Celtics alongside Jayson Tatum. Meanwhile, Brown has given Philadelphia another elite two-way player who can take over games offensively while making an impact defensively. The 76ers have quickly established themselves as one of the Eastern Conference's top teams, and Brown is a major reason why.

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Of course, George probably shouldn't expect a completely warm welcome. Philadelphia fans are passionate, and seeing a former star return in a Celtics uniform is bound to bring out some boos. Still, he has a point about the role he played in bringing Brown to the franchise. The 76ers acquired Brown in exchange for George and future draft compensation, giving them a proven star entering his prime. Boston, meanwhile, landed a veteran who can complement Tatum and help keep the Celtics in the championship conversation.

Tuesday's matchup also brings Brown face-to-face with his former teammates for the first time since the trade. That storyline alone makes this an important early-season game for both teams.

George may hear some boos when he steps onto the floor, but he can at least remind Philadelphia that the franchise ended up with one of the best two-way players in basketball because of the deal. He did his part. Now, both sides get another chance to prove the trade was a win.