The Philadelphia 76ers took a gamble when they signed Paul George to a four-year, $211 million contract in the offseason. With a lengthy injury history and a deal that extends into his late 30s, concerns about durability and long-term value were evident from the start.
With George sidelined for the remainder of the season due to knee and adductor injuries, those concerns have become a reality, leaving Philadelphia in a difficult position both on the court and financially.
George’s injury struggles were well-documented before he arrived in Philadelphia. Over the past six seasons, he has played more than 56 games just once. His time with the Clippers was defined by elite performances when healthy and frequent absences due to various injuries.
This season has followed the same pattern. George managed just 41 games before being forced to the sidelines, a crushing blow for a Sixers team struggling to stay afloat after losing Joel Embiid. The absence of both stars has exposed Philadelphia’s lack of depth, turning a once-promising season into a disappointing one.
Philadelphia’s decision to hand George a max contract was a short-term play meant to maximize their championship window with Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The deal, worth $49 million this season, includes a player option in 2027-28 when his salary jumps to $56 million, locking the Sixers into a significant financial commitment for a player with an unreliable health record.
Even before his latest injuries, George averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists — his lowest numbers since 2014-15. If this decline continues, his contract could quickly become a hindrance.
The Sixers entered the season hoping George would be the missing piece, but instead, their campaign has unraveled. Now sitting at 23-45 and 12th in the Eastern Conference, their playoff hopes have vanished. The focus has already shifted to the 2025 NBA Draft, where they hope to land a high pick and select a player capable of making an immediate impact, similar to what Jared McCain provided earlier in the season.
Philadelphia’s financial flexibility is minimal, with nearly $400 million guaranteed salary tied to two injury-prone stars. Their championship window may close unless they can build a deep, durable supporting cast. The Sixers knew the gamble they were taking with George. Just months into his contract, that gamble has dramatically backfired.
