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Charles Barkley questions Paul George’s ‘fishy’ suspension

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 1, 2026 1:42 PM ET

Charles Barkley had some questions about the 25-game suspension handed down to Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George for violating the NBA’s Anti-Drug policy.

George was suspended on Saturday and blamed a drug he took for his mental health for the suspension. On Saturday’s “Inside the NBA,” Barkley raised questions about whether the NBA was too strict in enforcing a suspension if George was taking something to address his mental health that did not actually enhance his performances.

“It’s something fishy going on here. I don’t joke around about mental health. If you’re taking something for mental health, that’s got to be an outlier to the NBA,” Barkley said. “If you’re taking something for mental health, even if it’s on a list, you should get a hall pass.”

"We don't need any player suffering from mental health … but this sounds fishy."

Charles Barkley and the Inside the NBA panel break down Paul George’s 25-game suspension and what it means for the Sixers moving forward. pic.twitter.com/KfCVC198HO
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 1, 2026

It has not been publicly revealed what drug George tested positive for, so without further details, it is hard to speculate. Most would likely agree that if he was taking something for legitimate reasons, the league should have excused it.

Barkley has not always been complimentary of George. In this instance, however, Barkley seems to be backing the 76ers star.

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

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