76ers’ George Suspended 25 Games for Medication Violation
The NBA has announced that Paul George will serve a 25-game suspension without pay due to a medication violation. The suspension arises from a breach of the league’s anti-drug policy, as confirmed by the NBA on Saturday.
Paul George’s Statement on Suspension
In a statement to ESPN’s Shams Charania, George expressed regret for his actions. He acknowledged his recent struggles with mental health and admitted to taking an improper medication while seeking treatment. George took full responsibility for his mistake and apologized to the Philadelphia 76ers, his teammates, and fans.
Impact of the Suspension
The suspension begins immediately, starting with the game against the New Orleans Pelicans. George will remain sidelined until he is eligible to return on March 25, when the 76ers host the Chicago Bulls. By that time, only 10 regular-season games will be left for Philadelphia.
George’s Performance and Team Dynamics
- George is currently averaging 16 points per game.
- He is shooting 38% from three-point range this season.
- In 27 games, he has contributed to a resurgence of the 76ers, who are sixth in the Eastern Conference.
With George, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey on the court, the trio has outscored opponents by over seven points per 100 possessions across 17 games.
Financial Implications of George’s Suspension
The suspension will cost George approximately $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary. This breaks down to around $469,691.72 per game missed. The 76ers will also benefit, saving over $5 million in luxury tax payments due to his suspension, allowing them to manage their roster more comfortably.
Future Outlook for the 76ers
Entering the Saturday game, the 76ers held a record of 26-21. They are 16-11 when George plays and 10-10 without him. Following a recent victory, Embiid spoke on the team’s hopes of remaining competitive while managing their roster and finances:
- “I love all the guys that are here. I think we got a shot.”
- He emphasized the importance of team cohesion and maintaining strong “vibes” in the locker room.
The 76ers aim to build on their current momentum while navigating the challenges posed by George’s absence. As they look ahead, the focus remains on optimizing team performance in the playoffs.
