The NBA announced on Saturday that Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been suspended without pay for 25 games for violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program.

The suspension begins immediately and will rule the nine-time All-Star out until late March, dealing a massive blow to a Sixers team currently jostling for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference.

While the league did not disclose the specific substance involved, a 25-game suspension under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement typically indicates a first violation for drugs of abuse or performance-enhancing substances.

 

 

 

George Issues Statement

Shortly after the announcement, George released a statement to ESPN explaining the circumstances behind the violation, citing an error made while seeking treatment for personal issues.

"Over the past few years, I've discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication," George said. "I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates, and the Philly fans for my poor decision-making during this process."

George added that he intends to use the time away to ensure his "mind and body are in the best condition" for the team's postseason push.

 

 

 

Financial and Team Impact

The suspension carries significant financial ramifications for the veteran wing. It will cost George approximately $11.7 million in salary, which is roughly $469,000 per game.

For the 76ers (26-21), the timing is perilous. Currently sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference, Philadelphia will have to navigate the next two months without their third-leading scorer.

With George sidelined, the pressure now shifts to the supporting cast. The 76ers will look to rookie VJ Edgecombe to step up and shoulder a heavier load alongside superstars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The highly touted rookie has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but he will now be thrust into a pivotal role as the team tries to stay afloat in the playoff race.

Timeline for Return

George is expected to be eligible to return on March 25, when the 76ers host the Chicago Bulls. By that time, Philadelphia will have only 10 games remaining in the regular season to reintegrate him into the lineup before the playoffs begin.

The suspension starts tonight as the 76ers face the New Orleans Pelicans at the Wells Fargo Center.

 

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