Paul George Likely Out For The Season Due To Groin And Knee Injuries

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Paul George's challenging debut season with the Philadelphia 76ers has effectively concluded. The team announced that the nine-time All-Star will be out for at least six more weeks due to groin and knee injuries. George, who is 34, received injections in his left adductor muscle and knee but hasn't been cleared to play. He has already missed two weeks because of persistent groin pain.

The 76ers had high hopes for this season after signing George to a four-year, $212 million deal. The plan was to pair him with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, a 2023-24 All-Star guard. However, both George and Embiid have struggled with injuries, leaving the team with a disappointing 23-44 record as of Monday.

Currently sitting in 12th place in the Eastern Conference, Philadelphia's chances of making the playoffs appear slim. This situation worsened when Joel Embiid was ruled out for the rest of the season on February 28 due to a chronic knee injury. His absence raises concerns about his long-term career prospects.

George's performance has also been affected by his health issues. Previously averaging over 21 points per game for nine seasons, he is now averaging just 16.2 points, along with 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game in the current season.

The decision to sideline both Embiid and George might help Philadelphia retain their first-round draft pick this year. They had traded this pick to Oklahoma City in a deal involving Al Horford back in 2020, but it remains top-six protected. With one of the lowest winning percentages in the NBA this season, they are slightly behind the Toronto Raptors' record of 24-44.

George's injury woes began early in the season when he hyperextended his left knee during preseason games. He later missed five games from January 28 to February 4 due to a finger injury before being sidelined most of March because of his groin issue.

The team's initial expectations were high as they aimed for a strong playoff run with their new roster additions. However, injuries have derailed these plans significantly, leaving them far from their championship aspirations.