The Philadelphia 76ers are off to a strong start in the 2025-26 season. After securing a thrilling 102-100 victory over the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night, they improved their record to 7-4. This promising start is even more impressive considering that Joel Embiid remains limited by a minutes restriction, and Paul George has yet to play a single minute this season.
George is still recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, which he underwent during the offseason. Although he has been inching closer to making his season debut, the 76ers are taking a cautious approach given his injury history. At 35 years old, George has already endured significant wear and tear throughout his career.
He was scheduled for a re-evaluation by doctors this past weekend to determine if he could return to action soon. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, “doctors want additional strength of his left quadriceps to support the knee” before clearing George to play. This suggests that Paul George is still in the process of rebuilding leg strength to avoid re-aggravating the knee issues he faced last season.
George’s 2024-25 season was plagued by injuries. He hyperextended his knee during the preseason and never fully regained his form throughout the campaign. The 76ers ultimately decided to shut him down late in the season, which coincidentally helped them retain their first-round draft pick that later became V. J. Edgecombe.
### 76ers Move Closer to Full Strength as Paul George Nears Return
Many 76ers fans have expressed frustration and even resentment towards George due to his underperformance last season after signing a max contract with the team. However, even in a diminished state, George’s presence on the court will bolster the team’s defense significantly. At the very least, he offers valuable 3-and-D capabilities, helping space the floor and easing some of the heavy shot-creation responsibilities carried by Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.
The earliest Paul George could return to action is this Friday when the 76ers face the surging Detroit Pistons in NBA Cup play. His comeback would mark a crucial step toward the team returning to full strength as the season progresses.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/philadelphia-76ers/76ers-news-what-doctors-want-to-see-before-giving-paul-george-injury-clearance
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