​Small forward Paul George is the biggest star the Indiana Pacers have had since Reggie Miller, and they intend to keep him in Indianapolis for a long time.





During a season kickoff event for the team, president Larry Bird discussed contract negotiations between the team and George, and suggested that if Paul George wants a max deal, " he’s got it."

That max contract every NBA player looks for might be coming to Paul George very soon. https://t.co/1lBaYbU8ca — IndyStar Sports (@IndyStarSports) September 21, 2016

​​It's relatively uncommon for the front office of a team to publicly reveal their hand in negotiations, but Bird demonstrated how important George is to the franchise, and George seems to reciprocate the love for the city.





George is under contract for two more seasons, with a potential third season if he accepts a player option in his contract. He has the ability, however, to decline the player option and sign a five-year extension as soon as next week, a move made by James Harden with the Houston Rockets earlier this offseason.





After suffering a gruesome leg injury while playing for Team USA in 2014, George endured a difficult rehab that saw him come back last year and have a career resurgence with the Pacers. The Fresno State product had his best scoring average, assists per game, and steals in his career, and led Indiana back to the playoffs. He also garnered his third All-Star selection, third appearance on the All-NBA Third Team, and second appearance on NBA All-Defensive Second Team.

The Pacers acquired hometown point guard Jeff Teague in the offseason and have high expectations to compete in a wide open Eastern Conference. With George in the fold for the long-run, the Pacers could be an Eastern Conference threat for years to come.