Sixers Notes: Paul George, Joel Embiid, Justin Edwards, win streak

The 76ers may soon have their full roster for the first time all season.

Veteran forward Paul George is in the “final stage” of his return-to-play process, the team announced, as he continues strengthening his left quad following offseason knee surgery.

George met with team doctors earlier in the day and is expected to be reevaluated later this week, with his season debut potentially coming soon after.

His return would add another layer of perimeter scoring and veteran leadership to a team that has leaned heavily on Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey in the early going.

No Structural Issues for Embiid: As for Embiid, there was relief all around after the reigning MVP underwent tests on his right knee.

Head coach Nick Nurse told reporters there are “no structural issues” and that the big man is considered day-to-day.

Embiid, who has primarily battled left knee problems in recent years, was held out of Tuesday’s win over Boston for precautionary reasons.

“No expectation at all,” Nurse said when asked about a potential long-term absence, via ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. “He just reported a little soreness. He’s had some imaging, and the doctors are here tonight to go over that with him.”

The Sixers don’t appear overly concerned, but Embiid’s health will continue to be closely monitored after his heavy workload early in the season.

Learning to Win Without Drama: Through 11 games, the Sixers have already played nine “clutch” contests — games decided by five points or fewer in the final five minutes.

They’ve gone 6-3 in those moments, but they know it’s not a sustainable way to live.

“I think it’s a good habit that we’re resilient,” said wing Quentin Grimes, via Tony Jones of The Athletic. “But we don’t want to have to keep coming from behind. We want to play ahead.”

Edwards Steps Up: Second-year forward Justin Edwards broke through Tuesday with his best game of the season, scoring 22 points on 8-of-9 shooting in 27 minutes.

“I love him,” Nurse said, via Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer. “He works extremely hard, really worked on his shooting, and he tries like crazy on defense. He’s not perfect, but he’s developing into a really good young player. If he has a bad game, it doesn’t even faze me.”

Philadelphia has now won three straight heading into Thursday’s home matchup, and could have George joining the lineup for the first time this season.