Paul George teases improved Sixers defense ahead of preseason opener

It might be an old trope, but it's true: Defense wins championships. 

Last season, the Boston Celtics were the second best defensive team in the NBA, boasting the best offensive rating in the league. Finding a high-level balance on both sides of the floor is key to becoming a genuine contending team. 

According to Paul George, the Philadelphia 76ers are on track to strike that balance. The veteran All-Star recently told the media that the defensive rotation, including himself, Caleb Martin and Kelly Oubre Jr., has been "causing havoc" on the perimeter during the early days of training camp.

“I think just our defense stands out, first impression of what this team looks like,” George said. “Just our defense with myself, Caleb, Kelly, we've been able to really cause chaos on the perimeter ... That's what I've taken away from the first couple of days of camp, just the way we were able to get out and shrink the floor, shut the floor down and really lock up on the perimeter.”

The Sixers ranked 11th in defensive rating last season, and George has built his reputation on his two-way play, proving himself to be one of the best wing defenders in the world during his prime. Even now, in the latter stages of his career, he's a difficult matchup for anyone in the league, regardless of their reputation or skill set. 

When Joel Embiid is placed in the middle of the floor and Tyrese Maxey's overall defensive upside as a pesky point-of-attack guard is factored in, the Sixers project to boast a highly impactful and efficient defensive rotation. Andre Drummond will also ensure there's size and rebounding off the bench, which is integral in controlling the tempo and taking control of a game. 

However, Nick Nurse must ensure the Sixers don't become so hyper-focused on the defensive end that it hurts their offensive output. The key to becoming a juggernaut is being elite on both sides of the floor, not over-correcting and striking an imbalance. Philadelphia was a middling offensive team last season, sitting 14th. So it's clear there's work to do on both sides of the ball.

Ideally, the Sixers will be in the top 10 for both offense and defense next season. That, along with their MVP-level big man and All-Star perimeter players, will give them their best chance of winning a championship in the near future. Of course, health will also play a significant role. 

Nevertheless, George is right to be excited. The Sixers have a roster capable of challenging the Boston Celtics for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. His arrival has played a big part in that. Whether the team can make good on its potential remains to be seen, but there's no denying that the pieces are there.