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76ers Make Paul George Announcement Before Raptors Game
© Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia 76ers and Toronto Raptors will face off for the final time this season on Wednesday night at Scotiabank Arena. Toronto leads the season series 2-0, with victories in October and February, and will look to complete the sweep. However, with both teams sitting near the bottom of the standings—the 76ers at 11th and the Raptors at 12th—this game could have significant implications for the 2025 NBA draft lottery.

Philadelphia has been plagued by injuries throughout the season, with superstar Joel Embiid officially ruled out for the year due to ongoing knee issues ( via Shams Charania ). The team will also miss Eric Gordon (right wrist surgery) and rookie Jared McCain (left knee meniscus surgery) for the rest of the season, while offseason acquisition Paul George has struggled to stay healthy.

The nine-time All-Star has missed four of the last five games, last appearing in a 126-112 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 4, where he played 30 minutes and finished with seven points, seven rebounds, and six assists.

Ahead of Wednesday’s matchup, the 76ers announced their injury report, and it lists George as out for the game against the Raptors due to left groin soreness.

Philadelphia will also be without star guard Tyrese Maxey (lower back sprain/finger sprain), marking his fifth consecutive absence, as well as veteran guard Kyle Lowry, who remains out with a right hip injury.

With just 18 games left in the season, the 76ers face a steep climb to secure a play-in spot. They currently trail the 10th-seeded Chicago Bulls by five games, and given their injury woes, the team's focus may be shifting from playoff contention to securing their top-six protected draft pick. Meanwhile, the Raptors will look to take advantage of Philly’s depleted roster and close out the season series with a win at home.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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