NBA 2018/19: 3 reasons why Paul George is now the Thunder's most important player

#1 Game Closer

Oklahoma City Thunder v Brooklyn Nets

After years of Russell Westbrook closing out games for the Thunder, Billy Donovan has finally realized that the team has better options. During the 16/17 and 17/18 seasons, Russell Westbrook would take over in the fourth quarter, although the 2017 MVP would fire low percentage three-point shots from deep, and continually attempt contested twos.

This strategy rarely worked for Billy Donovan's men, as opposition teams could easily double team Westbrook, and the point guard often ended up shooting his team out of the game.

So far during the 18/19 season, Westbrook has stepped aside, allowing Dennis Schroder, Paul George, and even Alex Abrines to take the closing shot. From this trio, George has emerged as the man for the fourth quarter, demonstrated by his incredible performance against the Nets, and ultimately, the ball is much better served in PG13's hands for the closing moments of games.