Paul George Suspended 25 Games for Anti-Drug Policy Violation: What It Means for the Sixers
The Philadelphia 76ers are about to face a major test, and it’s not coming from any opponent on the court. Star forward Paul George has been suspended without pay for 25 games after violating the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program. The league has not disclosed which substance triggered the suspension, but the impact is immediate and significant.
George’s suspension began with the Sixers’ matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans at Xfinity Mobile Arena. He had just come off two strong performances - a 32-point outing in a high-scoring win over the Bucks, followed by a 15-point contribution in a narrow victory over the Kings. Now, the Sixers will have to navigate the next quarter of the season without one of their key veteran pieces.
A Costly Absence - On and Off the Court
Beyond the obvious on-court implications, the suspension hits George hard financially. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the 25-game ban will cost him a staggering $11.74 million in lost salary.
The Sixers, meanwhile, will receive a tax variance credit of just under $5.9 million. Once George has missed five games, Philadelphia will be allowed to move him to the suspended list and open up a roster spot for a potential replacement.
Before the suspension, George was averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 42.4% from the field. While those numbers aren’t career highs, his veteran presence and ability to stretch the floor have been crucial to the Sixers’ game plan - especially in a season where the Eastern Conference playoff race remains tight.
George Takes Responsibility
In a statement shared after the league’s announcement, George didn’t deflect or deny. Instead, he took full accountability for the violation, citing a personal mental health challenge that led to him taking an improper medication.
“Over the past few years, I’ve discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication,” George said. “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.”
The veteran also made it clear that he won’t be appealing the suspension. Instead, he plans to use the time away to focus on getting both his mind and body right for the stretch run.
“I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return,” he added.
What This Means for Philly
The Sixers, currently sitting at 26-21 and sixth in the Eastern Conference, will now have to lean even more heavily on Tyrese Maxey, who’s been playing at an All-Star level this season. Maxey’s scoring punch and leadership will be vital in keeping the team afloat during George’s absence.
Philadelphia does have some roster flexibility with the ability to add a player once George is officially placed on the suspended list. But replacing his production - and more importantly, his experience - won't be easy.
The Sixers have aspirations beyond just making the playoffs. They’re aiming to contend.
And losing a player like George for 25 games in the heart of the season is a serious blow.
That said, this team has shown resilience before. With Joel Embiid anchoring the middle, Maxey stepping into a larger role, and a deep supporting cast, the Sixers still have the tools to compete. But make no mistake - the road just got a lot bumpier.
Paul George will be eligible to return later this season, and if he comes back locked in, he could still be a difference-maker in the postseason. For now, though, the Sixers will have to weather the storm without him - and prove they can hold the line while one of their stars is sidelined.