Designated pest? McGruder calls it playing hard

After George’s ejection, Heat say rookie has knack for prickly defense.

MIAMI — Rodney McGruder has played in 55 NBA games, but he’s already earned a reputation.

“He gets under your skin,” Heat teammate Dion Waiters said. “I think sometimes in this league people don’t understand that it’s about how hard you go. Rod, they probably overlook him coming into the game. But you know on that night that he’s going to make you work. He doesn’t care who you are.”

McGruder’s defensive assignment was four-time All-Star Paul George on Saturday night.

George fifinished with 10 points on 3-of-8 shooting, one rebound, Heat at Mavericks 8:30, Sun Sports