Russell Westbrook Wasn't 'Surprised' by Paul George Trade

The Clippers' acquisition of Paul George in July sent shockwaves through the NBA, but Rockets point guard Russell Westbrook says he wasn't caught off guard by the news. 

“I can’t be surprised if me and [George] were in communication the whole time,” Westbrook told Sports Illustrated's Rob Mahoney in a piece released on Tuesday. "So I wouldn’t say I was surprised at all. I’m all for doing what’s best for my teammates. If Paul felt like it was time for him to move on and explore options, then I'mma back him. That’s the type of relationship we have.”

Houston began its Westbrook pursuit shortly after George was traded from the Thunder to Los Angeles. 

“Once Paul went to the Clippers, I reached out to Oklahoma City and they said they were open to talk,” Rockets general manager Daryl Morey told Mahoney. 

The Rockets acquired Westbrook on July 11, less than a week after his partner-and-crime in OKC was shipped West. Westbrook is now reunited with James Harden as the pair eyes their first trip to the Finals since 2012.