Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George recently underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee following an injury sustained during a workout. The operation was deemed successful, and George is now set to begin a rehabilitation program. His recovery progress will be closely monitored, and the team plans to re-evaluate him before the start of training camp.
At 35 years old, George joined the 76ers on a four-year, $211 million deal last summer. However, his debut season with the team was hindered by persistent injury troubles. He averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists across just 41 games, marking his lowest scoring average since the 2014–15 campaign — a season in which he played only six games due to a severe leg injury.
George’s year was plagued by various physical setbacks, including issues with his groin, finger, and especially his left knee. With less than a month remaining in the regular season, the 76ers chose to shut him down entirely. Prior to that decision, George had received multiple painkiller injections in both his left adductor and knee in an effort to manage the discomfort and remain on the court. At one point, he reportedly played five straight games under the aid of injections before the All-Star break.
The impact of George’s limited availability, combined with injuries to other key players, was felt heavily by the team. Star center Joel Embiid also missed significant time, appearing in only 19 games throughout the season. The lack of continuity and star presence led to a disappointing campaign for Philadelphia, which ended with a 24–58 record — placing them 13th in the Eastern Conference.
Despite the setbacks, there was a silver lining for the 76ers. The team benefited from some lottery luck in May, vaulting up to the third overall pick in the NBA Draft. They used the selection to bring in Baylor standout guard VJ Edgecombe, a promising talent expected to help reshape the franchise’s future alongside Embiid and George, assuming the latter returns to full health.
The team’s medical and training staff will play a crucial role in managing George’s recovery. Given his age and injury history, a cautious approach is likely. The goal will be to have him fully ready for training camp and the upcoming season, where the 76ers hope to put their injury woes behind them and make a return to playoff contention.
George’s presence, when healthy, brings veteran leadership, elite two-way play, and valuable postseason experience. His ability to stay on the floor and contribute consistently will be key to Philadelphia’s aspirations moving forward. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on his rehabilitation timeline and whether he can regain the form that made him a perennial All-Star.
