Paul George guarantees he'll sign long-term extension before season

Indiana Pacers star Paul George plans on remaining in Indiana for a long time, and he expects a contract extension to be completed before the start of the season, according to Michael Pointer of the Indianapolis Star:

"(A long-term contract) is going to get done," George told The Indianapolis Star. "There will be a deal signed and sealed on the table before the season. We're (George and Pacers management) on the same page."

George has until Oct. 31 to come to terms on an extension, otherwise he would hit restricted free agency next offseason. George can sign an extension for up to five years, and he will likely sign for max money. In that case, he would become Indiana's one "Designated Player."

Considering the makeup of the Pacers and George's budding stardom, it seems likely that he will receive that five-year extension. George stepped up last season in the absence of Danny Granger, and the 23-year-old really made a name for himself in the postseason, leading the Pacers just one game shy of the NBA Finals.

George averaged 17.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists last season as he was named to his first All-Star team. As good as George is already, there's no reason to expect he won't improve even more. He's already regarded as one of the NBA's best two-way players, but improved offensive efficiency would vault him into superstardom.

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