Paul George has attributed his recent suspension to mental health issues stemming from an offseason knee injury.
George addressed the media at the 76ers’ complex, apologising to the team, fans, and his family for the lapse in judgment that led to the failed drug test.
He will return to the court for the Sixers against the Chicago Bulls.
George’s Suspension and Return
George received a 25-game suspension in late January for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program.
He stated that the decision to use a banned substance was linked to a mental health issue, which arose from a knee injury sustained during the offseason that impacted his performance this season.
“To let people down hurt more than kind of anything,” George said.
George elaborated on the challenges of dealing with physical limitations, stating, “The most difficult thing is when your body isn’t where you know it needs to be or where it once was. That leads and bleeds into the mental side of things, knowing that you’re limited. But for me, I feel good, my body is feeling great. Mentally, I know I’m capable of doing what I can do and what I’ve been able to on the court for years.”
Impact on the Sixers
The Sixers managed a 13-12 record during George’s absence, a period that also coincided with Joel Embiid’s injury.
Entering Tuesday night’s games, the Sixers held a 39-33 record, placing them seventh in the Eastern Conference standings.
George, who is 35, signed a $212 million, four-year contract in free agency ahead of the 2024 season.
His first year in Philly was affected by knee and adductor injuries, resulting in one of the worst years of his NBA career.
George has averaged 16 points in 27 games this season for the Sixers.
- He had surgery in July on his left knee after he was injured during a workout.
- He missed the first 12 games of this season.
- George averaged 16.2 points in just 41 games.
George’s Perspective on Recovery
George believes the suspension period allowed his body to recover from lingering injuries, which in turn improved his mental state.
“These 25 games were just what I needed, I think, for my body,” he said.
He said, “Being a pro athlete takes a toll on you. My body wasn’t where I wanted it to be. The expectations to perform because of my body not being where it needed to be, obviously, I’m going to have an expectation for myself. That’s what led to a poor decision at the time.”
The suspension resulted in a financial loss of approximately $11.7 million for George from his $51.7 million salary.
“I’ve said it throughout my career, dealing with mental health, I’m no