George: Support from Russ eases free agency decision

This sounds like good news for Oklahoma City Thunder fans.

Paul George is thrilled with the support he received from teammate Russell Westbrook after his All-Star snub and hinted his impending free agency decision may lead him to stay in Oklahoma City as a result.

"Russ is the reason why this decision is becoming even more easier to make," George told ESPN's Rachel Nichols. "A stand-up guy, and he has his teammate's back."

On Tuesday, Westbrook told reporters it was "outrageous" that George wasn't selected as a Western Conference All-Star reserve.

"It was awesome for a teammate to have your back and to stand up. And to be honest, he should be a starter," George added of Westbrook. "But the fact Russ had my back, that's my guy forever, and it's more apparent what this decision needs to be made when it comes down to it."

These are fairly strong words from a player widely expected to depart Oklahoma City - perhaps for his hometown Los Angeles Lakers - this summer. George was traded to the Thunder by the Pacers last June so Indiana could recoup assets under the belief he intended to leave.

George could still pass on free agency and opt for the final year of his current deal with OKC at $20.7 million for 2018-19. Westbrook's supermax contract extension kicks in this summer and keeps him with the Thunder until 2023.