The Philadelphia 76ers have stumbled out of the gate in the 2024-25 NBA season, beginning with a dismal 3-13 record. Ahead of their matchup against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, Paul George addressed the team’s struggles. Despite the rough start, George expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back and regain momentum.
The 34-year-old forward signed with the 76ers this summer to form a new “Big Three” alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The former Los Angeles Clippers star believes the team’s focus on effort and energy will be critical. Injuries have plagued Philadelphia’s roster early this season, but Paul George remains optimistic.
Obviously, with [Joel Embiid] out, myself, Tyrese just joining back and getting his rhythm, we’re a little limited. But I think what we can control is just our effort, our energy, and doing things a little harder. We’ll change this around. I’m 100% betting down on that. It’s on us. We got to control what we can.
Paul George said in his media availability
Paul George’s comments come in a dire need to address the issues that have defined the 76ers’ slow start. Injuries to key players, including himself and Embiid, have disrupted team chemistry. Nevertheless, he emphasized that controllable factors like effort and discipline must remain a priority.
Paul George promises that the Sixers’ season will turn around
“We’ll change this around. I’m 100% betting down on that that we’ll change this. It’s on us. We got to control what we can.”
(Via @Ky_Carlin ) pic.twitter.com/fl062D7wrt
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 26, 2024
The 76ers’ struggles were not what the franchise envisioned when they acquired Paul George in free agency. After finishing 7th in the Eastern Conference last season with a 47-35 record, the team brought in the nine-time All-Star to revitalize their championship hopes. However, things have not been great so far.
Paul George injury update
A significant factor in Philadelphia’s underwhelming performance has been Paul George’s absence due to injury. The veteran hyperextended his left knee for the second time in a month during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on November 20. He has not played since, missing nine games so far this season.
The 76ers announced that George participated partially in practice earlier this week but will remain sidelined for Wednesday’s game against Houston. Speaking to reporters after practice, George shared an optimistic update. He aimed to return in the next week when asked about a possible return.
Adding to the 76ers’ woes, Joel Embiid has also been dealing with “left knee management” and has played in only four games so far this season. His absence alongside ‘PG’ has left a significant void in the lineup, forcing Tyrese Maxey and other role players to carry the burden.
