Eastern Notes: George, Stephenson, Andrews

Pacers swingman Paul George is excited about the team’s offseason additions and views next season as one that Indiana will use to vault back into championship contention, Michael Singer of USA Today relays. “I think Al Jefferson is as good as it gets in terms of low-post scorers,” George said. “Thaddeus Young has been very underrated, been forgotten about being in Brooklyn.”

George, who chose to participate in this summer’s Olympic games despite suffering a horrific leg injury two years ago during a Team USA scrimmage, discussed his mindset now, telling Singer, “Being away from the game you cherish it a whole lot more. It’s a reality that one day this thing could be all over. So stepping on that court, it’s refreshing. I found a whole new love that I didn’t think I could find in basketball.”

Here’s more from the Eastern Conference:

• The Hornets have invited undrafted free agent Andrew Andrews to attend training camp with the team, Michael Scotto of Sheridan Hoops reports (via Twitter). The point guard appeared in 34 games for the Washington Huskies last season, averaging 20.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.9 assists in 33.8 minutes per outing.
• While Lance Stephenson may be a fit with the Heat if he were willing to come off the bench, the team’s roster crunch (18 players currently under contract) would likely prevent the swingman from viewing Miami as a desirable landing spot for next season if the team were interested in him, Ira Winderman of The Sun Sentinel opines in his latest “Ask Ira” column.
• Bobby Marks of The Vertical took a look at back an active offseason for the Hawks that saw the departures of longtime players Jeff Teague and Al Horford, plus the arrival of Dwight Howard via free agency.