Hoping the more hard core basketball fans can answer a question I have about what has happening. What is so special about playing with Paul George?
Just for a second, set aside geography (going home, blah, blah, blah) and just consider the two rosters.
Kawhi on the Raptors with the current roster and probably a couple of veteran additions, which they probably would have made if Kawhi returned.
vs.
Kawhi and Paul George together on the current Clippers.
From what I have hear and read, it wasn't even an option for Kawhi to come back to the Raptors as currently constructed. It was: "Get Paul George and maybe I will re-sign."
I'm trying to understand, strictly from a basketball/competitive situation why paying with George is so special.
In regards to Kawhi and his decision, you really can't view it in a vacuum like that (i.e. if the Raptors had gotten PG, he stays). I frankly think that's a fallacy. Its become abundantly clear that Kawhi wanted to be in LA. Leveraging the Raptors as a viable option was effective in forcing the Clippers hand to make the PG move. Remember, he originally reached out to KD, then to Jimmy, and then settled on PG (who was under contract).
As far as PG goes, he's perhaps the closest player in terms of similarity to Kawhi in the league (go to scorer, lock down defender, two-way monster). Others have mentioned his prowess as a two-way player, and they are correct. He had his best offensive year this past season, which makes sense as he's in his prime. Quite clearly a top-5 player at the deepest position in the league (Giannis, Kawhi, Lebron, PG, KD).
Circling back, I don't really see a fit with them playing together on the offensive end. Same goes for the personnel around them. A closing lineup of PatBev, LouWill, Kawhi, PG and Montrezl seems more confusing than anything. Defensively of course, they'll be ridiculous if they're both healthy. As the situation goes, I don't personally think the motley crew they've assembled is a better winning situation in 19/20 than the reigning champion Raptors in the weaker Eastern Conference. More high end talent, yes, better #2, yes, better situation, no.
Further, just an FYI on PG. Finished the year unable to shoot or defend at his usual level due to a frayed labrum in his left shoulder and a torn tendon in his right shoulder. Double shoulder surgery this offseason. Might miss the start of the year. Kind of funny that they may ask him to play the 4.