Scouts, Execs On Paul George And 76ers: There’s Still Time

December 6, 2024

The 76ers brought in Paul George for moments like this, but so far, it’s been more about surviving than thriving.

Sure, George dropped 29 points and dished out eight assists in Tuesday’s win over the Hornets — his best game yet this season.

But let’s not sugarcoat it: Philly is 5-15. Injuries have been the theme, and it’s a tune Sixers fans are sick of hearing.

George has played just 10 games, battling two knee injuries. Joel Embiid? He’s missed the better part of the early season, dealing with a left knee issue and a suspension.

Combine that with George’s shooting dip — coming off his career-best efficiency last season — and you’ve got a recipe for frustration.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not over. Not in this Eastern Conference. Scouts and execs around the league are saying the same thing: there’s still time, as relayed by Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst of ESPN. Basically, despite the dumpster-fire start, the 76ers are just one loss out of 10th.

Also, the trio of George, Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey has seen the court together for a whopping six minutes entering Friday. Six! If that number doesn’t skyrocket — and soon — it’s hard to see this team climbing out of the hole.

But if they get healthy? Different story. George and Maxey can take the load off Embiid when he’s out, and that depth could still make them dangerous. It just hasn’t happened yet.

The clock’s ticking. Philadelphia’s margin for error is gone, but the hope? Not quite. Stay tuned.