Frank Vogel has described Paul George as "one of the most complete players in the game" following the Indiana Pacers' win over the Atlanta Hawks.
The Eastern Conference's top seeds beat their playoff opponents 101-85 to level their first-round series 1-1.
The coach told reporters: "That's why he was in the MVP conversation early. He always does those types of things, guarding the best perimeter player, rebounding the ball, deflecting the ball.
"His hands were all over the place. It makes him one of the most complete players in the game when he plays like he did tonight."
George was the team's top scorer during the victory, finishing the game with 27 points, as well as 10 rebounds and six assists.