The Philadelphia 76ers have suffered a devastating blow to their already struggling season, as nine-time All-Star forward Paul George has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign.
The team announced early Tuesday morning that George underwent a procedure involving injections in his left adductor muscle and left knee, requiring a six-week recovery period.
This news effectively ends George’s first season in Philadelphia after joining the team as a highly touted free agent during the offseason.
His tenure has been marred by a series of injuries, preventing him from establishing consistent rhythm and contributing to the Sixers’ playoff push.
George, who averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists in 41 games, has been plagued by physical setbacks throughout the year. His injury woes began in the preseason when he hyperextended his left knee during a game against the Atlanta Hawks on October 15th.
While initial assessments deemed the injury “OK,” it foreshadowed the persistent issues that would hamper his season.
Further setbacks included a finger injury in January, forcing him to miss a matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. The team revealed he had sustained tendon damage to his left little finger against the Chicago Bulls.
The Sixers, currently sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference standings with a 23-44 record, face an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot without their star forward.
The team’s struggles throughout the season have been evident, and George’s absence will further compound their challenges.
This news comes amidst a flurry of other NBA updates. The New Orleans Pelicans also announced that forward Trey Murphy III will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn labrum.
Meanwhile, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr has emphasized the need to provide superstar Stephen Curry with rest, acknowledging the guard’s exhaustion.
