Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George. Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Paul George likely to make Sixers debut vs. Suns

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Nov 4, 2024 2:08 PM ET

After a strong summer of recruitment, the Philadelphia 76ers came into the 2024-25 season billed as one of the Eastern Conference's biggest contenders . However, both Paul George and Joel Embiid have been sidelined to begin the season. As such, Nick Nurse's team has gone 1-4 over its first five games.

When speaking to the media during a pre-game availability Monday, George provided an update on his impending return. He noted that the chance of him suiting up against the Phoenix Suns stands at 90-95%.

"I would say, 90 percent, 95 percent," George said. "Obviously, I'm going to go through shootaround this morning and give it a full test. But I've been cleared for the past couple of days. No soreness, no swelling, no anything to give me a second thought going into tonight."

Sixers forward Paul George said there’s a 90, 95% chance that he’ll play tonight vs. the Suns. pic.twitter.com/yFmcIQClS3
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) November 4, 2024

The Sixers need some positive results. Their season is already under mounting scrutiny. Joel Embiid's recent altercation with a reporter has added a further spotlight to the happenings in the City of Brotherly Love.

George's two-way ability should elevate the Sixers to a new level. Unfortunately, they're facing one of the most potent offensive teams in the NBA. Given Philadelphia's recent struggles on defense — it's ranked 21st in the NBA for defensive rating — it could struggle to contain Kevin Durant and Co.

Getting George back in the rotation is an important step for the Sixers. However, we won't be able to see what this roster is capable of until Embiid is back on the court. Until then, Nurse's roster will be treading water, especially as they try to keep George healthy and avoid him making a quick return to the injury report.

Just a few weeks ago, Sixers fans had a lot to be excited about. Now, they will likely be on the edge of their seats, hoping their latest star addition can make an impact while also coming through unscathed.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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