The Boston Celtics have an increasing level of confidence in their ability to sign Paul George to a contract extension.

George has been believed to prefer to join the Los Angeles Lakers either via trade or in the offseason of 2018.

The Celtics' belief they can turn George into more than a one-year rental has them increasingly willing to part with significant assets to the Indiana Pacers.

The Pacers could allow George to speak to potential suitors about a contract extension, though that permission has yet to be granted.