Paul George has no “ill will” towards fans following treatment as he returns to LA

Philadelphia 76ers star forward Paul George returned to Los Angeles to play against the Clippers on Wednesday for the first time since leaving the team as a free agent during the offseason. George had a major contract issue with the Clippers that led to him deciding to move on entirely.

Like any free agent, George had the power to make his own decision. But Clipper fans didn't seem to forget that he decided to leave.

He received a few boos and a handful of “PG Sucks” chants from the crowd at the Intuit Dome. This happened every time he touched the basketball, at least early on and during pregame introductions.

However, he said he bears “no ill will” toward the fans or the Clippers organization.

“I was a free agent. It wasn’t something where I demanded a trade or showed against the team,” he said. It was cheers, I appreciate them. Those were the ones I played hard for. I didn't understand the boos. I still don't understand it when I go to Indy. But it is what it is.

The Clippers and their fans got the last laugh of the game as they claimed victory by a score of 110-98. George dropped 18 points, seven rebounds and two assists in the loss.

He was a key figure in the Clippers organization for years, but injuries and inconsistent play doomed Los Angeles. With him and his co-star Kawhi Leonard, they never managed to get over the hurdle, which led to great frustration.

George even addressed the Clippers' decision not to give him the money he asked for over the summer.

“I see,” George said when asked about the Clippers’ choice. “Um, I mean, I understand. … I think people don't realize that business is business. You've made a business decision that works for the organization, and that's okay. “I made a business decision that worked for me and my family.” And so there's no love lost here, but I appreciate and love these guys.

In the end, it was time for George and the Clippers to part ways. They desperately needed a change and he can now team up with two other stars on a loaded Eastern Conference team.

While it probably wasn't the ending either side wanted, it may have been the ending to their partnership that they needed.

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