Sixers' Kelly Oubre Jr. professes love for Paul George as he quashes viral beef rumors
When Paul George signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in July, it wasn't just a move that would be considered the answer to the Sixers' problems. While there is no doubt that with PG on the roster, given that Nick Nurse can manage his stars, the 76ers should be a formidable force in the league.
Apart from trying to find a way to play George with Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid, the Sixers had one more problem to deal with: how to play Kelly Oubre Jr. with PG. Given how both players had gone against each other in the past, concerns lingered around the league.
Oubre and PG have been involved in a few on-court confrontations. They had to be separated a few years ago after George tried to pull a move on Kelly.
However, the new teammates quashed the narrative after Oubre Jr. appeared on George's "Podcast P with Paul George" on Monday. Addressing the narrative around, Oubre said that said that he has always looked up to the nine-time All-Star.
"It was never no beef," Oubre said. "It was just a young guy looking up to him, wanting to make a name for himself in the league. He always would try to sauce me up for real, as he should. Right? You know the competitor in me, I probably did a little extra. ... There never was no beef, man.
"It was just all respect. The media comes in and kind of twists things. But it's just been a blessing to be able to be in his generation and be able to play against him and now be on the same team."
Kelly Oubre Jr. gives a new name to Paul George in his new media post with new teammate
When Paul George showed up at the Philadelphia 76ers' facility, Kelly Oubre Jr. welcomed him just like every other teammate.
Tsunami Papi clicked a picture with Young Trece and posted it on his Instagram handle. However, it was the caption that stood out in the post. Calling PG "YGBully," Oubre had already named the duo, YGBully X K9.
"YGBully X K9. Let’s rock out brother . $Till ♾️ #Shhh," Oubre wrote in caption.
Last season with the Clippers, Paul George averaged 22.6 points per game in the regular season. The 76ers star also averaged a career-high 47.1% shooting, including 41.3% from the 3-point line. George also averaged 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game.
George is one of the league's best two-way players. In addition to the offense, his presence on the Sixers will also substantially impact their defense. More importantly, his presence will be pivotal in maximizing Joel Embiid and getting him ready for the playoffs.