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[Saba Sports News] Paul George’s first year with the Philadelphia 76ers has been plagued by injuries, and now his season is officially over.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the nine-time All-Star has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. George recently received injections for his left abductor and knee injuries and will be sidelined from basketball activities for at least six weeks. Reports have also suggested that surgery may be required to fully address one or both injuries.
After signing a 4-year, $212 million deal with the Sixers last summer, George’s debut season in Philadelphia has been a massive disappointment. He played in just 41 games, posting 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game—his lowest scoring average in over a decade (aside from his injury-shortened 2014-15 season).
With Philadelphia sitting at 23-44, there was little reason to push George to return, especially with Joel Embiid already ruled out for the season. However, between his underwhelming play and some publicly criticized comments, George’s standing with Sixers fans is off to a rough start.
The team’s future remains uncertain, with Embiid’s injury concerns looming and George’s long-term fit in question. While a potential parting of ways could be explored, moving George’s massive contract at age 36 would be a major challenge for the Sixers.