Paul George remains involved with Sixers while serving suspension

Paul George remains active with the Philadelphia 76ers while sidelined by a 25-game suspension, and the team has leaned on his presence as it fights to avoid the play-in tournament. paul george has attended shootarounds, team practices and film sessions and is eligible to return on March 25 for the final 10 regular-season games.

Out of the lineup since Jan. 29 but still on the floor in other ways

George has not been on the court in a game since Jan. 29 after receiving the suspension for violating the league's anti-drug policy. He has served 12 games so far of the 25-game penalty and will rejoin the roster in late March when he becomes eligible to play again.

Before the suspension, George was in the midst of a resurgent season while working his way back from offseason arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. In 27 games prior to the suspension, he averaged 16. 0 points and shot 38. 2% from three-point range while providing defensive value for the team. The 9-time All-Star’s on-court production has been difficult to replicate in his absence.

How the team is using his experience

Even while barred from games, George has continued to help the Sixers prepare. He has been participating in shootarounds, practices and film sessions, and has been used on the scout team to simulate upcoming opponents. Coach Nick Nurse described George’s work with the scout team, saying he “makes life difficult on us” and praised his individual preparation and presence at all team activities.

Young players have noticed his influence. Quentin Grimes said having George around has been valuable, noting that his presence and long experience in the league provide help even when he is not on the floor. The team has leaned on George to teach and coach players, particularly on the defensive end, as Nurse has asked him to continue using his voice while sidelined.