Paul George and Tracy McGrady, two tall and long-arm small forwards, were once NBA scoring champions and superstars, and both were once called "young Maddie" by O'Neal. However, when we compare the careers of the two at the age of 34, we find that their circumstances are very different.
Paul George, 34, is in his prime, averaging 23. per game in the regular season as one of the core of the Clippers3 points 66 rebounds 52 assists and a shooting percentage of 467%, and the three-point shooting percentage is as high as 411%。Not only did he make the All-NBA team three times, but he also led the Clippers to a historic Western Conference Finals with the Suns. He saved the team from danger many times in the playoffs, showing great leadership and big heart. His performances have given people a new appreciation of his value and put him on track to get a max contract this summer.
Tracy McGrady, who is already a retired player at the age of 34, ended his career early due to injury. He played his final season as a bench for the Spurs in 2013, averaging just 52 minutes of playing time, contributing 32 points 08 rebounds 06 assists and just 38 percent shooting9% and only 25% three-point shooting. Although he also reached the Finals with the Spurs, he didn't get too many opportunities and ultimately failed to achieve his championship dream. He officially announced his retirement in 2015, ending his career full of glory and regret.
Paul George and Tracy McGrady, two players who were once compared to O'Neal, had very different fates at the age of 34. In addition to the factors of luck and injury, there are also their own characteristics and choices. Paul George is an all-around player who is not only able to score, but also defend, play, and rebound, his style of play is more adapted to the development of modern basketball, and he is also willing to play the right role in the team, partnering with other stars in pursuit of higher honors. Tracy McGrady is a pure scorer with a lot of offensive tools and a style of play that relies more on individual ability, and he tends to be a loner in the team, not working well with other stars, and his honor is limited by this.
Paul George and Tracy McGrady, two 34-year-old small forwards, are not embarrassed without comparison. Their careers may give us some inspiration, that is, in the sport of basketball, talent and hard work are not everything, but also need to be blessed with adaptability, cooperation and luck to be able to go further and leave more brilliance.