Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George gave a detailed update on his recovery during the team’s 2025 Media Day.
The 35-year-old underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in July after sustaining an offseason injury. He explained that his progress has been steady and that he is hopeful for an earlier-than-expected return.
“I think I’m getting better and better, feeling stronger and stronger,” George told reporters. “Hopefully this next couple weeks is very important leading into the season, the start of the season, the opening night, all of that stuff.”
George admitted that last season was one of the most difficult of his career. He was limited to 41 games while battling knee, groin, and finger issues, describing the campaign as “a rock bottom kind of season.”
Despite the struggles, he emphasized that his outlook for this year is different. “We’ve been leaning on one another. I’ve been here for about two, three weeks now. Been in the gym every day, been in the weight room every day. Guys are committed to getting better. We’re hungry,” George said.
When asked if he plans to change his approach to injuries, George said he is listening to his body and trusting the team’s medical staff. “For me to do that I do got to be healthy,” he explained. “I’m putting the work in, I’m putting the time in, I’m seeing the progress.”
The veteran also embraced his role as a mentor for Philadelphia’s younger players, including rookie V.J. Edgecombe. “I think this year is a better role for me coming into this,” George said. “I know the situation. I know where I’m needed at. I know what role I can play as a veteran and a leader.”
George noted that he is currently able to lift, shoot, and perform stationary basketball drills but has not been cleared for full contact. He confirmed there is no official timeline for a return but stressed that swelling has decreased during his rehab.
The eight-time All-Star also indicated he is open to playing more minutes at power forward in Nick Nurse’s system. “I can adjust and play at the fourth spot, give extra ball handling on the floor, better spacing,” he said.
George signed a four-year, $212 million contract with the 76ers in 2024, forming a core with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. After a season filled with setbacks, both he and the organization are focused on ensuring he enters the 2025–26 campaign in full health.
