Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George made his long-awaited season debut Monday, helping them edge the Los Angeles Clippers 110-108.
George, who had yet to play this season after undergoing left knee surgery in July, struggled to find his shot, scoring nine points on 2-of-9 shooting. However, he added seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks in 21 minutes.
Injuries also marred the nine-time All-Star's 2024-25 campaign, with knee, finger, and groin issues limiting him to 41 games.
George averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists last season after signing a four-year, $212-million contract with Philadelphia in the summer of 2024. The six-time All-NBA standout spent five seasons with the Clippers from 2019-24.
Although the Sixers regained a key starter in George, they continue to deal with other injuries in their rotation. Kelly Oubre Jr. reportedly sustained an LCL injury last week and could miss significant time, while Joel Embiid missed his fourth consecutive game Monday due to right knee soreness.
Philadelphia (8-5) sits sixth in the Eastern Conference.
