Paul George Undergoes Knee Surgery: What It Means for the 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers are once again dealing with injury woes as Paul George, their high-profile acquisition, underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee earlier this week. The surgery was prompted by an injury sustained during a recent workout, as reported by ESPN.
Recovery and Rehabilitation Plan
George, now 35 years old, will initiate a rehabilitation program and will be re-evaluated ahead of the upcoming training camp. This is critical as the 76ers look to bounce back from a disappointing previous season.
Last Season’s Struggles
In the 2024-25 NBA season, George’s performance was far from what the 76ers had anticipated after signing him to a four-year, $212 million deal. He participated in only 41 games and averaged:
- Points: 16.2 per game
- Rebounds: 5.3 per game
- Assists: 4.3 per game
In March, he was shut down for the remainder of the season due to a combination of injuries affecting his left adductor muscle and knee.
“I haven’t been the healthiest, so it’s just been putting a ton of work towards getting my body as healthy as possible," George stated when he stepped back from his podcast to focus on his health and team performance.
Team Impact and Future Considerations
The 76ers struggled significantly last season, finishing 13th in the Eastern Conference with a disappointing record of 24-58. George’s inconsistent presence had a ripple effect throughout the team’s dynamics, especially alongside fellow star Joel Embiid, who also had his season cut short due to a knee injury.
Key Additions for the Upcoming Season
To bolster their lineup, the 76ers made strategic moves during the offseason. They selected Baylor star V.J. Edgecombe with the No. 3 overall pick in the recent NBA draft, adding fresh talent to their roster alongside established players like George, Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey.
Looking Ahead
As the new season approaches, the 76ers face a critical period of adjustment and healing. The health of Paul George, coupled with the recent additions, could make or break their chances in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team navigates this crucial phase.
For more updates on the 76ers and NBA news, check out coverage on ESPN and NBA.com.
