Is Paul George playing tonight against Pistons? Latest on 76ers star’s status (Nov. 30)
The Philadelphia 76ers upgraded Paul George to questionable ahead of their game against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday. PG13 was reportedly a full participant during his team’s practice on Friday. The 76ers will continue to monitor him closely and give an update on his status a few hours before tipoff.
George last played on Nov. 20 in Philadelphia’s 117-111 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. He lasted until early in the third quarter after hyperextending his knee. The former LA Clippers star finished with two points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal in 17 minutes.
What happened to Paul George?
Paul George’s career with the Philadelphia 76ers has gotten off to an injury-plagued start. He first hyperextended his knee in a preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks. The nine-time All-Star had to sit out his team’s first five games to recover from the injury.
George debuted on Nov. 4 against the Phoenix Suns. He finished with 15 points, five rebounds and four assists in Philadelphia’s 118-116 loss. PG13 played seven more games until he hyperextended the same left knee that forced him to sit out the start of the season.
When will the new 76ers star return?
Following reports that he was a full participant in the 76ers’ practice on Friday, George has a chance to suit up against the Detroit Pistons. If the team doctors refuse to give him the clearance to play, his next opportunity will be Tuesday against the Hornets in Charlotte.
The Philadelphia 76ers badly need Paul George back
The Philadelphia 76ers hold a 3-14 record, just a game above the Washington Wizards (2-15) for the worst win-loss card in the NBA. Injuries continue to be a big problem for the 76ers as Joel Embiid remains out, Kyle Lowry isn’t available and Caleb Martin is questionable.
Tyrese Maxey recently returned from injury, but the 76ers need Paul George and their other stars to return. Maxey and rookie Jared McCain have been carrying the team amid the slew of injuries.
George is perhaps the team’s best two-way player. He averages 14.9 points per game this season, but he can impact the game in different ways. PG13 is still one of the best defenders in the NBA when healthy. His defense alone should help the team’s flailing 2024-25 campaign.