Paul George Targeting Playoffs Return

Feb 18, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward

(24) drives to the basket against Atlanta Hawks forward

(26) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Atlanta 108-98. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The Indiana Pacers are facing a very difficult season without their budding superstar Paul George, but seeing him without a walking boot at media day was a refreshing sight. He is back in his walking boot today, but he was able to show that his rehab is progressing at an impressive pace. George likely won’t see the court this season, but he is still holding out hope for a return if the Pacers are able to make the playoffs without him.

George talked to Mark Montieth of Pacers.com about his desire to return for the playoffs.

"“It’s very possible that I can play [this season],” George said. “I’ve talked to all the guys and said, ‘Man, you guys have to get in the playoffs. That’s the best chance I’ve got of coming back and playing this year.’ I’ve already got it in mind that I could miss this whole year. I’ve come to peace with that, but I’d love to be able to come back and play again.”"

Seeing this type of news is very relieving for Pacers fans, even though it isn’t likely to happen. A freak injury like George suffered could very well scare a player when working to get back on the court, tut that doesn’t appear to be anywhere close to George’s mind. He is focused on coming back as quickly as possible, and helping his team if at all possible.

Don’t expect to see George make his return this season, even if he feels that he is ready to get back into game action. The Pacers’ medical staff isn’t going to allow him back onto the court until he is in top shape and 100 percent ready to play against NBA competition. While he may be back on the court and playing basketball again, it isn’t likely that he will play against tough competition this season.

That being said, he should be ready to go full speed at the beginning of the 2015-16 season. Indiana desperately needs him to come back and be the player that he once was, and there is a lot of pressure on George’s shoulders to return to being a top player in the league next season. It will be very intriguing to see how his recovery continues to progress, and whether or not he looks like his former self when he can get back out on the court.