The NBA has handed down a 25-game suspension to Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George for violating the league’s anti-drug policy - a significant blow to both the player and a Sixers team trying to gain traction in a competitive Eastern Conference.
In a statement, George addressed the situation head-on, acknowledging that while seeking treatment for a personal issue, he took an improper medication. “I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision-making during this process,” George said. He also emphasized his focus on using this time away from the court to get both his mind and body right for when he returns.
The suspension comes with a steep financial hit - roughly $11.7 million of George’s $51.7 million salary this season. And while the Sixers will be without one of their key contributors for the majority of the remaining schedule, there will still be 10 games left in the regular season when George is eligible to return. That gives both him and the team a narrow but important window to reestablish rhythm ahead of a potential playoff run.
On the court, George has been a steady presence for Philadelphia this season. He’s averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, while shooting 42.4% from the field, 38.2% from three, and 85.5% from the line. Those aren’t career-high numbers, but they represent efficient, veteran production - the kind of output that helps stabilize a team through the ups and downs of an NBA season.
The Sixers, currently sitting at 26-21 and sixth in the East, are firmly in the playoff mix. But without George, they’ll need others to step up - particularly on the wing, where his two-way versatility has been crucial. His ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and create offense in spurts has helped balance a roster that’s still finding its identity.
George, a nine-time All-Star, joined the Sixers in the summer of 2024 after leaving the Los Angeles Clippers and signing a four-year, $211 million deal with Philadelphia. His arrival was seen as a major piece of the franchise’s retooling after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign in which they missed the playoffs. The hope was that George could bring veteran leadership and playoff experience to a group looking to re-establish itself among the East’s elite.
Over his career, George has suited up for the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Clippers, and now the Sixers. He’s averaged 20.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game since entering the league as the 10th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft - numbers that speak to both his longevity and his impact across multiple eras and systems.
For now, the Sixers will have to navigate a challenging stretch without one of their most experienced players. But if George returns refreshed and ready for the final push, his presence could still be a difference-maker in what’s shaping up to be a tightly contested playoff race.