TORONTO -- Thunder coach Billy Donovan nodded last week as a reporter repeated what Paul George had said that morning – that he felt responsible for getting his guys ready while Russell Westbrook served a one-game suspension.

“I don’t think its necessarily just because Russell’s out,” Donovan said. “I think he’s been more outspoken the entire year in a healthy, positive way.”

George told reporters in September that he was going to be more of a vocal leader this season. Now, with nine games left in the season, it appears he has fulfilled that promise.

The decision to take on that role, George said Sunday, came along with his choice to re-sign with the Thunder over the summer.