It’s been almost two whole months since the last time we saw Paul George take on the hardwood. The last time George played was back on Jan. 29, when the Philadelphia 76ers took on the Sacramento Kings.
Some may not be aware of why George abruptly took his leave in the middle of the season. Here’s everything you need to know about why he’s out and when he could possibly return.
76ers Coach Confirms Paul George’s Return
The 76ers took on the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday. One of the biggest concerns for Sixers fans right now is how they’re supposed to proceed without their star players. Joel Embiid remains out due to his right oblique strain, while Tyrese Maxey recently joined the injury report after sustaining a right pinkie injury.
While Embiid and Maxey are on the injury report, some might be wondering why George isn’t on there and hasn’t been playing.
Back on Jan. 31, NBA insider Shams Charania reported that George was suspended indefinitely due to violating the league’s Anti-Drug Program. George’s actions were deemed “improper medication.”
Following the report, George made a statement and quickly apologized for his carelessness. He mentioned that he was simply seeking help for his mental health problems.
Since then, the Sixers’ star has missed 25 games, which slightly affected the team’s placement in the Eastern Conference’s standings. Prior to his suspension, George was putting up solid numbers, averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.5 steals.
His contributions were efficient enough to help Embiid and Maxey maintain their spot within the top six of the conference. However, ever since George’s suspension and Embiid’s absence due to injury, the Sixers have struggled to maintain their spot in the playoff picture, and could possibly do battle in the Play-In Tournament.
Having that in mind, many are now wondering when George could possibly make his return to help his team climb the ladder with only 10 games remaining in their regular season.
According to Sixers insider Austin Krell, it appears that George’s suspension has finally been lifted and is expected to play in Wednesday’s game against the Chicago Bulls. Krell confirmed that Sixers head coach Nick Nurse made the announcement.
“Nick Nurse confirms that Paul George will be available to play Wednesday, barring anything unforeseen,” Krell reported on X.
Nick Nurse confirms that Paul George will be available to play Wednesday, barring anything unforeseen.
— Austin Krell (@NBAKrell) March 23, 2026
His return comes as perfect timing, especially now that Philadelphia still has the opportunity to potentially secure either the fifth or sixth seed.
The Sixers are currently in seventh place with a 39-32 record. They’re currently tied with the sixth-placed Atlanta Hawks (39-32) and are 0.5 games behind the fifth-placed Toronto Raptors (39-31). With 10 games remaining, George has plenty of opportunities to make up for lost time and hopefully lead his team to a playoff berth this season.
