![Paul George may be dealing with an injury, but his teammates say he's still having an impact. [Frank McGrath/PS&E]](https://i0.wp.com/www.vigilantsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Paul-George-in-street-clothes.jpg?resize=659%2C392)
Paul George may be dealing with an injury, but his teammates say he’s still having an impact. [Frank McGrath/PS&E]
“He talked to us, said some things that were on his mind, some things that we could clean up,” explained Glenn Robinson III, who got the start in George’s absence Friday night and had the best game of his career. “I think that really had a big impact on the game tonight and how we played offensively.”
George is dealing with a sore left ankle, an injury that kept him out Friday and at least the next two games.
[Paul George, Kevin Seraphin to miss at least the next two games]
“He just told us that we need more movement,” Robinson shared. “We need to communicate on offense just as much as we do on defense. To have fun, and remember that we’re a team. We can do stuff together. We should always be connected. I think that we really took that to heart.”
The 22-year-old signed with the Pacers two summers ago after his rookie season where he spent time with the 76ers and Timberwolves. He said after signing that he wanted to learn from George, and planned to work to become a two-way player, too.
“Paul is smart. Being on that USA team, he knows what it takes to be a winner. He knows what it takes for a guy like me that might be on the bench and now you have to step up and now you have to be that sixth or seventh man — whatever it might be.
“He knows the game really well. I thought that everyone was locked in and really listened to him.”
Jeff Teague is quiet by nature — both in the locker room and with the media. He takes care of business, fulfills media obligations, and then goes on his way. After nearly recording his first-ever triple-double, he admitted that guys are going to have to sacrifice in the best interest of the team.
“We’ve just been preaching all week, after yesterday’s practice that we want to move the ball and play together as a team,” said Teague, who has nine points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. “We all had to make some sacrifices and that’s what we did tonight.”
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George did not speak postgame because he is sidelined with an injury.
The Pacers had lost three of four entering Friday’s game, which they won by 21 points. They host the Clippers on Sunday, and then they are out west for five consecutive games.
Watch Robinson III and Teague discuss the what was said below: