Patrick Beverley has sparked debate after suggesting the Golden State Warriors could have captured more championships with Paul George in place of Klay Thompson.
Speaking on The Pat Bev Podcast with Rone, the veteran guard argued that George’s all-around impact would have elevated Golden State beyond its four-title run with Thompson.
“If you put Paul George in that role playing as Klay Thompson, playing with [Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala] at a point — obviously we know Paul George a couple years ago, was in the MVP race,” Beverley said, NBC Sports Bay Area. “If you substitute those two… I think that Golden State probably wins more championships.”
Thompson, who left the Warriors last offseason to join the Dallas Mavericks, played a central role in the dynasty that won titles in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. His elite shooting, perimeter defense, and off-ball movement made him a perfect complement alongside Curry and Green.
George, meanwhile, has built a career as one of the NBA’s most versatile forwards. An eight-time All-Star and six-time All-NBA selection, he finished third in MVP voting during the 2018–19 season with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Beverley’s hypothetical comparison raised eyebrows given Thompson’s legacy in Golden State. Widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in league history, he owns the record for most points in a single quarter (37) and ranks near the top all-time in three-pointers made.
George, however, brings more size, playmaking, and individual scoring versatility than Thompson. His ability to defend multiple positions and create offense could have provided the Warriors with a different dynamic during their championship stretch.
Still, Golden State’s success was built on chemistry as much as talent. Thompson’s seamless fit with Curry in the “Splash Brothers” backcourt helped redefine modern basketball and powered the Warriors’ offensive system.
