Can Lance Stephenson Help Keep Paul George with the Indiana Pacers?

Paul George liked bringing back Lance Stephenson, but Larry Bird will need to do more to keep PG with the Indiana Pacers.

First things first, keeping Paul George in an Indiana Pacers uniform isn’t going to happen if Larry Bird has another summer like last year.

Just to make myself clear, Paul will not stay if Larry can’t make multiple moves to improve this roster. This year has been a complete disappointment. Which means the summer of 2017 is all the more important for Bird and company.

But bringing back Lance Stephenson was the first step in the right direction.

The return of Lance Stephenson

Although the signing of Lance was all over the media, it’s more than just a feel good story. It might be too soon to say, but Larry’s move to bring back Lance was brilliant. Long overdue if anything. Lance loves Indiana. What Lance brings back to the Hoosier state is more than just a play-making two guard who is a terror in the open court.

Lance Stephenson brings intangibles that go beyond his play on the court. Lance brings toughness and the thought that he will back down to no one. He brings infectious energy that can be felt everywhere he goes. He brings qualities that are so important to winning basketball. And most importantly he wants to win as bad as anyone on the floor.

All great teams have a least one player with edginess that raises their teammates play. Lance is that player, a Draymond Green type or a Russell Westbrook. While he is not near the player those two are, these intangibles make a huge difference.

What Lance means for Paul George as well as his play on the court

Although Stephenson’s intangibles are what make him a difference maker, he can hold his own between the lines. He is a very good defensive player as well as a valuable play-maker. Lance is one of the better passing two guards in the league even though his jumper leaves a lot to be desired.

Where this signing will really prove it’s worth however, is Lance’s relationship with PG. Not only were they drafted in the same class together, George likes playing along side Lance. He is the type of player that can bring out the best in Paul.

Next year’s Lance is more important than this year’s Lance

On a 3 year deal there is no rush. Stephenson can play his game and work to prove he still has some. Being only 26 years old he is not even yet into the prime years of his career. But, it’s so important that he can prove his best playing days are ahead of him and not behind.

While there is some pressure on him to regain his form, I believe in Lance Stephenson. I believe that he will once again show why Indianapolis loved him and opposing teams hated him. And I believe that he can prove to be that same fiery guard that Paul always loved to play with.

Next: Pacers Playoff Fate Is Still Out of Their Hands

I know that this one signing will not keep PG in Indy. But, with the right moves in the off-season the return of Lance Stephenson could end up being an instrumental part in keeping Paul George in a Pacer uniform for years to come.