Philadelphia 76ers are set for a highly anticipated boost as veteran forward Paul George is expected to make his season debut on Monday. Ahead of their matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that George is on track to return to action after months spent recovering from a knee injury sustained over the summer—an injury that ultimately required surgery.
George returns after lengthy knee rehab
George’s road back to the court has been a central storyline for Philadelphia this season. The All-Star has been sidelined since undergoing knee surgery, delaying the start of what many hoped would be a fresh chapter in his 76ers tenure.
His absence placed added pressure on the team’s young backcourt, but it also created opportunities—ones that Tyrese Maxey and rookie standout V.J. Edgecombe have fully embraced.
Despite the uphill challenges, the 76ers enter Monday’s game with a 7-5 record, proving competitive and resilient. Paul George’s return arrives at a crucial moment, especially with Joel Embiid once again unavailable indefinitely. His presence offers Philadelphia an immediate injection of scoring support, defensive length, and veteran leadership.
Impact on the 76ers’ lineup and expectations
The Sixers will be looking for George to relieve the offensive burden on Maxey and Edgecombe. His ability to create shots, guard multiple positions, and stabilize possessions makes him one of the league’s most valuable wings when fully healthy.
While Philadelphia has adapted admirably in his absence, integrating George back into the rotation will be essential as the team looks to strengthen its standing in a wide-open Eastern Conference.
However, expectations surrounding Paul George come with understandable caution. His first season with the 76ers fell short of the high hopes tied to his arrival. He averaged 16.2 points per game—his lowest scoring output in years—and played in just 41 matchups before being shut down for the season.
Philadelphia slipped to a 24-58 record, ultimately securing the third pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. It was a disappointing outcome for a player who joined the franchise on a $211 million max contract.
A crucial season ahead for Paul George and the Sixers
Now entering his age-35 season, George faces the challenge of proving he can still elevate a team amid concerns about how his latest injury may affect his athleticism. His performance on Monday will offer the first glimpse into what he can contribute this year.
With Philadelphia aiming to push further into contention, the 76ers are hoping Paul George’s return marks the beginning of a revitalized campaign—not only for the team, but for the former Clippers star himself. As one of the most scrutinized players heading into the matchup, George’s debut could set the tone for the Sixers’ trajectory in both the short and long term.