Last week, reports emerged stating that Paul George had agreed to a four-year, $137 million max contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder, a three-year deal plus a player option.

This is a huge result for the Thunder, as they've managed to keep George in Oklahoma and away from his desire to play in his hometown of Los Angeles with the Lakers.

Many thought that because of PG13's desire to play in his hometown, that he would play for the Thunder for one season before signing with the Lakers. However, that isn't the case.

The Thunder star revealed in the latest episode of his ESPN documentary why he decided that he will not be joining the Lakers this summer.

George said in part three of his "My Journey" documentary for ESPN released on Tuesday, via The Score: "I 100 percent appreciate Laker Nation for wanting me to come back home, wanting me to play in front of them.

"I wanted to come here a year ago prior to going to OKC. Unfortunately, wasn't traded to Lakers. Lakers didn't grab me. I was traded to Oklahoma. That's been a beautiful thing for me."

PG13's short-term and long-term goals have been changed over the past 12 months by the impact which the Thunder franchise and fan base has had on him since his arrival in Oklahoma last summer.

George and Westbrook

George also revealed why he was so compelled to sign a new deal with the Thunder this offseason, stating how big of an impact his relationship with Russell Westbrook played into the decision.

He said, via USA Today Sports: “It’s more than just loyalty, it’s about doing what I think is right. I feel this is the best and perfect opportunity to cement myself and bring a championship where it hasn’t been brought.

"They’ve welcomed me with open arms, and I want them to feel that hype that I have toward what I think we can accomplish there. I want to be part of something that’s special and something that I’ve created. In Oklahoma, I think there is something I can create there.

“Aside from being one of the best human beings I’ve been around, (Russell Westbrook’s) approach to the game is what guys who want to be a part of and build something with.

"Russ is somebody I can win with and vice versa. So I think with this decision, that makes me much more comfortable knowing I got a shot and a real chance to win with one of the best players in the league.

“I’m happy. I’m more than happy. This is the city and community I chose, and the place I decided to play. And I’m excited. I’m excited to go along this journey and really go all in on this experience.”

George is now with the Thunder for the next three years minimum, meaning a return to his hometown will have to wait a little while longer.

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