Just 11 games in, this has been the best start to a season in Keyonte George’s young career. And, there are myriad contributing factors — his attitude, his approach, the emphasis on defensive details, tighter handles, recognition of his role — but there’s been one big change that is easy to see.

George is getting to the free-throw line nearly twice as much as he was in previous seasons. But more important than the fact that he’s taking more free throws is the part of his game he’s changed that’s led to the increase. George has stopped foul-baiting.

It’s natural for players, especially young players, to lean into defenders, to look for contact, to try to get a bump anytime they have the ball in their hands, to flail when they feel the slightest touch, in hopes that the officials will call

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