Sixers rookie gives love, respect to impressive veteran Paul George

BOSTON -- The Philadelphia 76ers are in a position to eliminate the Boston Celtics in Game 7 on Saturday night thanks to the play of Paul George on the perimeter. The 9-time All-Star has been a huge part of the comeback with his ability to defend Boston's two stars on the wing and his ability to put the ball in the basket.

On the day of his 36th birthday, George will look to help the Sixers put the final nail in the coffin for the Celtics and get the job done. He is averaging 18.2 points while shooting a ridiculous 53.8% from deep and defending his behind off out on the perimeter.

George's play has impressed rookie guard VJ Edgecombe who has learned a lot from the 9-time All-Star throughout the entire season.

"It don’t matter how old he is," Edgecombe beamed. "He can guard. He’s, like, 36, and he still plays defense. He’s still able to move and score at the same time. It just shows how great of a player he is regardless of how the game’s going. If he’s having a bad shooting night or not, he can still impact the game."

That ability to impact the game despite a tough shooting night. That is how the Sixers succeed. When players can contribute despite shots not dropping, it makes a huge difference on the floor. That's what the Sixers will need heading into this Game 7.

"Boston’s a really great team," Edgecombe added. "They prepare really well. So, we’re expecting their A-game. They’re a really talented team. We just gotta be ready. That’s all. Just gotta be ready. They’re gonna come out at home, playing hard, and we gotta do the same thing."

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers rookie gives love, respect to impressive veteran Paul George