George Returns to Court: 76ers’ Star Shakes Off Rust

Paul George made his return to the court on Monday, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers in their thrilling 110-108 victory over the LA Clippers. This game marked George’s first appearance since March, after undergoing surgery on his left knee in July.

Paul George’s Comeback Performance

In his comeback game, George recorded nine points and seven rebounds in just 21 minutes of play. He emphasized feeling good about returning, despite acknowledging some rust in his performance. “It felt great to finally play basketball again. It was a long journey with many ups and downs,” George stated after the game. He shot 2-for-9 from the field.

Game Highlights

• George played in brief stints at the start of each quarter, sitting out the final 8:52 of the game.
• He quickly made an impact by hitting a 3-pointer just a minute into the game, assisted by Tyrese Maxey.
• Maxey led the game with an outstanding 39 points.

George’s return was critical for the 76ers, who overcame a 13-point deficit in the game. His performance included two free throws after being fouled on another 3-point attempt, and a short runner over Clippers center Ivica Zubac.

Team Dynamics and Challenges

Despite George’s contributions, he spent significant time on the bench as the 76ers navigated a tight finish. Tyrese Maxey committed two costly turnovers in the final moments, keeping the game competitive. The Clippers had their chances, with former 76er James Harden missing two late 3-point attempts that could have altered the outcome.

During the game, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse noted Joel Embiid’s absence due to knee soreness, stating that while Embiid was improving, he was not yet pain-free. Additionally, Kelly Oubre Jr. was sidelined due to a knee sprain, creating adjustments within the starting lineup.

Looking Ahead

George’s return is a positive sign for the 76ers, who are looking to build momentum after a lackluster previous season. With a four-year, $212 million contract signed in July 2024, expectations are high for George as he aims to elevate his game and contribute significantly.

As the season progresses, George’s integration into the lineup will be crucial. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his performance evolves and how he adapts after an extended absence from the game.