The Blockbuster Signing That Shook the NBA
When the Philadelphia 76ers landed
Paul George on a four-year,
$212 million maximum contract this summer, it sent shockwaves through the league. After months of tense negotiations with the LA Clippers—who refused to match George’s demand for a fourth year—the nine-time All-Star chose Philly, joining forces with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey in a bid to resurrect a franchise that stumbled to a dismal 24-58 record last season.
The move was hailed as the missing piece for a championship run. But as the new season dawns, the Sixers’ high-stakes gamble is already facing its first major test.
Knee Surgery Throws Opening Night Into Doubt
George’s arrival was supposed to mark a new era, but instead, fans are left waiting. The star forward underwent arthroscopic knee surgery after an offseason workout injury, forcing him to miss the entire preseason. Despite ramping up his rehab and returning to live three-on-three drills, George has been officially ruled out for the Sixers’ opening night clash against the Boston Celtics.
NBA insider Shams Charania cautioned that George still has “some check marks he has to hit from his rehab process,” noting that lingering knee issues have plagued him since last season. The Sixers’ coaching staff and medical team are taking no chances, prioritizing long-term health over a rushed debut.
Can George Deliver on the Sixers’ Championship Dreams?
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Philadelphia’s front office preserved max cap space for this exact moment, betting that George’s elite two-way play would vault them into contention in the Eastern Conference. But with the 34-year-old forward’s durability in question, skepticism is mounting.
Former NBA champion Jeff Teague bluntly predicted that the Sixers’ best-case scenario this year is a play-in tournament berth, while ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins challenged George to “prove his naysayers wrong” or risk being remembered for a failed experiment.
George, for his part, remains defiant. Speaking at media day, he insisted, “I still consider myself an elite player and just need to get healthy to show it.” The Sixers are banking on that confidence—and a summer of health and stability—to pay off.
What’s Next for George and the Sixers?
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George’s return timeline: Still uncertain, but he’s inching closer to game action as he progresses through rehab.
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Team chemistry: The Sixers must quickly integrate George with Embiid and Maxey once he’s cleared, hoping the trio can gel before the playoff race heats up.
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Financial risk: With George and Embiid commanding
35% of the salary cap each, Philly’s flexibility is limited if injuries persist.
Expert Takeaways
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The Sixers’ championship hopes hinge on George’s health. If he returns to form, Philly could be a legitimate contender. If not, the franchise faces tough questions about its future.
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George’s legacy is on the line. This season is his chance to silence critics and prove he’s still among the NBA’s elite.
As the Sixers tip off the 2025-26 season, all eyes are on Paul George’s comeback—and whether this blockbuster bet will pay off.
Sources
1. 76ers Make Early Call on Paul George's Status vs Celtics
2. NBA free agency 2024: Latest signings, news, buzz and ...
3. Paul George: Breaking News, Rumors & Highlights
4. Paul George hoping a summer of health and stability will ...
5. Paul George Injury: Won't suit up Saturday
6. Could the Sixers waive-and-stretch Paul George or Joel ...
7. Paul George (knee) remains out for Sixers-Hornets, Joel ...
8. Clippers In Review: Paul George's season to forget
9. Four Sixers on Injury Report vs. Hornets ahead of home ...
10. PhillyVoice: Philadelphia local news, sports, health, business ...
11. 10/22 Game Preview: 76ers at Celtics
12. Brian Shaw shares the real story behind Sprewell choking ...
13. Mountain West in the NBA – 2025-26 Season
14. Program Planning Guide 2024-2025 Upper School
