Why a Big 3 with Paul George is not enough for the 76ers | The Herd
The Philadelphia 76ers added a new piece to their puzzle to create their Big 3. Paul George inked a four-year, $212 million deal to join Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey as that third piece. However, Jason McIntyre is not sold on the move.
Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George was suspended 25 games by the NBA for violating the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program, the league announced in a statement on Saturday.
The league did not disclose the nature of George’s violation, but in a statement to ESPN, the nine-time NBA All-Star said he was "taking an improper medication."
"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," his statement read."
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"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."
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) shoots the ball against the Milwaukee Bucks during the third quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 27, 2026. (Bill Streicher/Imagn Images)
The 25-game suspension, by terms of the agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, indicates that this was a first violation by George.
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George will not be paid during the suspension, which will cost the 76ers forward an estimated $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary.
Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball against the Denver Nuggets at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Jan. 5, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
George is expected to be eligible to return on March 25, when Philadelphia hosts the Chicago Bulls. The 76ers will have 10 games remaining in the regular season at that point.
Paul George (8) of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Jan. 16, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
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Before the suspension, George appeared in 27 games, with the 76ers going 16-11 when he was on the floor. The 35-year-old averaged 16 points in those contests. In the 20 games without George, Philadelphia went 10-10.
Philadelphia entered Saturday in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings. The 76ers play the New Orleans Pelicans Saturday night.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
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