The 76ers just took a body blow they didn’t see coming.
Veteran forward Paul George has been suspended 25 games without pay for violating the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program, the league announced Saturday. The suspension begins immediately and will sideline George until at least March 25 vs. Chicago, leaving him available for only the final 10 games of the regular season.
In a statement provided to ESPN’s Shams Charania, George said the violation stemmed from taking an “improper medication” while addressing mental health concerns.
“I take full responsibility for my actions,” George said, adding that he’s using the time to get his “mind and body in the best condition” to help the team when he returns.
From a basketball standpoint, this is a mess. Philadelphia sits 26–21, clinging to sixth in the East, and now loses one of its highest-paid players during the most critical stretch of the season. Whatever margin for error the Sixers had is gone.
There’s also a financial ripple. Per ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the suspension creates a $5.87 million tax variance credit, pushing Philadelphia to just $1.26 million over the luxury tax.
That suddenly makes a minor salary dump at the deadline far more appealing. And no, it probably won’t involve a core piece.
George has averaged 16.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 27 games, numbers that already felt light for a max contract signed just last summer. The suspension will cost him nearly $11.75 million, and after five games he can be moved to the suspended list, temporarily freeing a roster spot.
Between injuries, load management, and now this, the Sixers’ big swing on George hasn’t just missed so far. It’s actively hurting them.
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
