Paul George wasn't offended by the initial backlash from Boston Celtics fans following his offseason acquisition from the Philadelphia 76ers as part of the blockbuster Jaylen Brown trade.
"I understand the circumstances. I understand how huge (Brown) was not only for this organization, but here in the city. So, I didn't take it personal," George told reporters Tuesday during his introductory press conference. "To be honest, they should have a relationship emotionally to that trade."
George added: "No personal feelings towards how it (was) received here in Boston. To be honest, it's fair. Hopefully with how we start this year, they understand this is a new team and something that they can be proud of."
While George is eager to start a new chapter with the Celtics, he knows Brown's contributions to the franchise won't be forgotten.
"It's fair to live with that emotion, given what JB stood for and what he brought. And the history," George said. "He was a part of raising a banner and winning a championship here. That's gonna forever stick, right? But it's a new group. It's a new opportunity.
"And again, I think they're getting someone that's ready to not fill the shoes or fill the void of (Brown). But I think from a personal standpoint ... I think I can come in and kind of still keep us in that contention and give us a chance to win."
George averaged 17.3 points, 5.3 boards, 3.6 assists, and 1.7 steals across 37 appearances with the Sixers in 2025-26.
The 36-year-old played an instrumental role in helping the 76ers erase a 3-1 series deficit against the Celtics in the first round of last season's playoffs. He tallied 16 points, nine boards, seven assists, and a pair of steals in a Game 5 win and followed that up with a 23-point performance in the next contest.
George is eligible to become a free agent next summer if he declines his $56.6-million player option for 2027-28.
