The Philadelphia 76ers will be without Paul George for the next 25 games after the NBA suspended him for violating the league’s anti-drug policy, according to a tweet from NBA insider Shams Charania. George released a statement to ESPN acknowledging his mistake while seeking treatment for a personal issue, apologizing to the organization, teammates, and fans.
“Over the past few years, I’ve discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision making during this process. I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return,” George’s statement reads.
George, 35, has averaged 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this season over 27 contests. His absence removes a veteran scoring option and perimeter presence for a 76ers squad that currently sits sixth in the Eastern Conference at 26-21.
Philadelphia faces the New Orleans Pelicans tonight, a team holding a 13-37 record and currently 14th in the Western Conference. The Sixers have won their last two games, including a 113-111 victory over the Sacramento Kings and a 139-122 win against the Milwaukee Bucks.
With George sidelined, the 76ers will rely on Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, who are averaging 25.7 and 29.4 points per game respectively. VJ Edgecombe (15.1 PPG) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (14.0 PPG) are expected to take on increased offensive responsibilities.
The suspension comes at a crucial point in the 76ers’ season as they compete for playoff positioning in a tight Eastern Conference, where Detroit leads at 35-12 and the Sixers trail by nine games.
