George Hill hoped to finish career in Indiana

As a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, George Hill was in the perfect situation suiting up as a starter for the Pacers.

His career recently took a sharp turn, though, as the 30-year-old point guard was recently traded to the Utah Jazz as part of a three-team deal involving the Atlanta Hawks.

"It came as a surprise," Hill told reporters on Friday, according to Vigilant Sports' Scott Agness. "Last time I checked, I was supposed to retire from Indiana. Very surprising, but I know this is a business and anything can happen. So, I'm not upset about it. I think I'm in a great situation here. I'm here, somewhere where I feel wanted right now."

Hill is now in a situation in Salt Lake City where he can maintain his position as a starter, while also acting as a mentor for 2014 first-round pick Dante Exum, who sat the entire 2015-16 campaign as a result of a torn ACL.

The eight-year pro landed in Indiana during the 2011 NBA draft after getting dealt by the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for the No. 15 pick, which turned out to be All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard.

Revered for his work on the defensive end rather than being a true facilitator, Hill still managed to put up respectable numbers during his 319 games with the Pacers, averaging 12.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. He also shot 44.8 percent from the field and 37.9 percent from 3-point range.

Utah will bring some colder temperatures than Hill is used to, but it's nothing he feels he can't adjust himself to over time.

"Not prepared for the cold but it happens. It comes with the territory," Hill said. "It’s not like I’ve not been in the cold coming from Indiana, so it can’t be that bad."