Paul George Suspended 25 Games for Anti-Drug Policy Violation, Issues Apology
The Philadelphia 76ers will be without Paul George for a critical stretch of the season, as the veteran forward has been suspended 25 games by the NBA for violating the league’s anti-drug policy.
George, in his 16th NBA season and first with the Sixers, addressed the situation in a statement, saying he had been seeking treatment for a personal issue when he took 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.”
George added that he’s using this time away to focus on his health-both mentally and physically-so he can return ready to contribute.
This suspension comes at a pivotal point in the Sixers’ season. Philadelphia currently holds a 26-21 record, sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference standings.
The team has leaned on George’s veteran presence and versatility, especially with injuries and lineup changes throughout the season. In 27 starts, he’s averaging 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in just over 30 minutes per game-solid numbers that reflect his ability to impact the game on both ends, even as he adapts to a new system and role.
The Sixers will now have to navigate a 25-game stretch without one of their key two-way contributors. George will be eligible to return with just 10 games remaining in the regular season, which puts added pressure on the team to stay afloat in the standings without him. In a crowded Eastern Conference, every win matters, and this stretch could determine not only playoff seeding but also how much momentum the team carries into the postseason.
For George, this suspension is a setback-but it’s also a moment of transparency. He’s long been an advocate for mental health awareness, and while the league’s policies are clear, his openness about the circumstances behind the violation adds important context. It’s a reminder that even seasoned pros are navigating complex personal challenges behind the scenes.
The Sixers, meanwhile, will have to adjust quickly. Expect more minutes for younger wings and a heavier load for the team’s core scorers. With George sidelined, the margin for error narrows-but the opportunity for others to step up widens.
George’s return, if all goes as scheduled, will come at the tail end of the regular season-just in time for the final playoff push.