Paul George. Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

Why Paul George can co-exist with Joel Embiid on 76ers

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Aug 19, 2024 4:45 PM ET

Paul George joined the Philadelphia 76ers earlier this summer. In doing so, the nine-time All-Star teamed up with former MVP Joel Embiid. Whenever two stars join forces, there's always a question surrounding whether one of them will have to take a backseat, especially when the game is on the line with time running out.

During a recent episode of "Podcast P with Paul George," the new Sixers star reminded everyone that he's shared the court with multiple elite stars in recent years. He also noted that Nick Nurse would ultimately have the final decision on who takes the last shot when a game is on the line.

"Whoever Nick Nurse draws it up for, we're gonna get the best shot," George said. "I've dealt with that. I've been on teams with other superstars. We live and die with whoever takes it (the final shot.)"

Chet Holmgren asks Paul George about if it should be him or Joel Embiid taking the last shot for the Sixers on the latest @PodcastPShow pic.twitter.com/KQcavM86jN
— Sean Barnard (@Sean_Barnard1) August 19, 2024

George has spent the past four years sharing the court with Kawhi Leonard, who is arguably the most talented two-way player in the NBA. Last season, he also had Russell Westbrook and James Harden in his locker room. George also had multiple star-level teammates during his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Therefore, Sixers fans shouldn't be concerned about a power struggle between George and Embiid. George's history around the league has positioned him to be both a primary and secondary option, depending on what the team needs throughout the season.

Still, Philadelphia must first ensure that both Embiid and George remain healthy. Neither player has been the picture of health in recent years. If Daryl Morey's latest roster reshuffle is to pay dividends, Nurse must manage his star's playing time and operate with the postseason firmly at the forefront of his mind.

However, if the Sixers enter the playoffs healthy, with a problem-free season in the books, George's presence on the roster will be a massive boost. After a strong summer, that has seen Morey add multiple veterans, Philadelphia is perfectly positioned to challenge for an NBA championship. That is, of course, if it can overcome the Boston Celtics.

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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