The Philadelphia 76ers have been one of the more unexpected success stories of the NBA season, climbing to sixth in the Eastern Conference after finishing as a lottery team a year ago. A key factor in that turnaround has been the play of veteran forward Paul George, whose improved health and adjusted role helped stabilize the roster.
George’s first season in Philadelphia was largely disappointing, as injuries limited him to 47 games and his production dropped significantly from his final years with the Los Angeles Clippers. This season, while he has appeared in only 27 games, George had begun to show signs of consistency and appeared more comfortable embracing a reduced offensive role while contributing defensively.
That momentum came to an abrupt halt this week.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the NBA has suspended George for 25 games for violating the league’s anti-drug policy. Following the announcement, George issued a statement through ESPN explaining that the violation stemmed from an improper medication taken while seeking treatment for a mental health-related issue. He accepted responsibility for the mistake, apologized to the organization, his teammates, and the fan base, and stated that he intends to use the suspension period to focus on his physical and mental well-being before returning.
The loss of George represents a significant setback for Philadelphia. Even as his offensive numbers have declined, his perimeter defense has remained a valuable asset. Without him, the 76ers are expected to feel a noticeable drop-off on that end of the floor.
The suspension also complicates the team’s short-term planning. George will not be eligible to return until March 25 against the Chicago Bulls, forcing the 76ers to lean more heavily on Tyrese Maxey and rookie V.J. Edgecombe to help contain opposing perimeter players.
Beyond the immediate on-court impact, the suspension casts a harsher light on George’s contract. His four-year, $211.5 million deal now looks increasingly burdensome for a team trying to build sustainable contention. With George sidelined for an extended period and carrying a significant salary, Philadelphia’s flexibility ahead of the trade deadline is further reduced, as few teams are likely to absorb that contract given his availability concerns.
For a 76ers team that had begun to find its footing, the suspension introduces uncertainty at a critical point in the season. How Philadelphia navigates the next two months without George may ultimately determine whether this promising campaign can stay on track or begins to unravel.
