Paul George Suspended 25 Games for Anti-Drug Program Violation; Sixers Face Crucial Stretch Without Star Forward
The Philadelphia 76ers will be without Paul George for the next 25 games, as the veteran forward has been suspended for violating the NBA’s Anti-Drug Program. The league announced the suspension on Saturday, offering no details on the substance or nature of the violation. By league policy, a 25-game suspension signals a first-time offense under the terms agreed upon by the NBA and the players’ union.
For George, the timing is tough-and the financial hit is significant. He’ll forfeit approximately $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary, translating to nearly $470,000 per game missed. But beyond the paycheck, the Sixers will feel this absence on the court, especially as they navigate a competitive Eastern Conference race.
George addressed the situation in a statement, acknowledging that while seeking treatment for a personal issue, he mistakenly took an improper medication. He apologized to the Sixers organization, his teammates, and fans, calling it “poor decision making” and vowing to stay ready and in top shape for his eventual return.
That return is projected for March 25, when the Sixers host the Chicago Bulls. By then, Philadelphia will have just 10 games left in the regular season-meaning George will miss a critical chunk of the schedule, including matchups against several top East contenders.
The Sixers, currently sitting sixth in the East at 26-21, have been a different team with George in the lineup. They're 16-11 when he plays, and a flat 10-10 without him. That split speaks volumes about his impact, even in a supporting role behind stars Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.
Through 27 games this season, George is averaging 16 points per game-third-best on the team behind Maxey (29.4) and Embiid (25.7). And he’s still capable of turning back the clock. Just this past Tuesday, he lit up the Milwaukee Bucks for 32 points, knocking down nine threes in one of his most explosive performances of the year.
Now, the Sixers will have to find a way to stay afloat without him. The Eastern Conference is unforgiving, and every game down the stretch matters.
With Maxey playing at an All-Star level and Embiid continuing his MVP-caliber campaign, the Sixers still have the firepower. But George’s absence removes a key two-way piece-someone who can space the floor, defend wings, and step up in big moments.
Philadelphia’s depth will be tested, and head coach Nick Nurse will have to get creative with rotations. The hope, of course, is that when George returns in late March, he’ll be rested, locked in, and ready to help push the Sixers into the postseason with momentum.
For now, though, the Sixers face a pivotal stretch without one of their most experienced voices and versatile contributors.