Pacers' Turner: George 'has to do what's best for him'

Once Paul George departs the Indiana Pacers, either by trade or free agency, Myles Turner will likely become the team's franchise player. The 21-year-old is aware of that, and holds nothing against George for wanting to leave.

"PG has to do what's best for him and his family," Turner told HoopsHype's Alex Kennedy. "He's from L.A. so I feel like he's always wanted to play with them. I think it was a childhood dream of his and you can't take that personally."

Although heavily rumored to be headed to the Los Angeles Lakers one way or another, George has also been linked with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The 6-foot-11 Turner is a tremendous talent who has shown improvement in each of his two NBA seasons. While still prone to some youthful mistakes, he averaged 14.5 points per game in 2016-17, while ranking second in the league in block percentage. He said he's ready for the responsibility of being a franchise cornerstone.

"Without a doubt," Turner told Kennedy. "I've had two years experience and I know that's not a lot, but ... in that little sample size, I feel like I'm ready to take on more. I want to become a leader. Why not start early?"