76ers and Grizzlies

11/20/2024 10:06 PM

Look away Philadelphia 76ers fans, your team has been hit with yet another setback.

Paul George left Wednesday’s loss to the Memphis Grizzlies just after halftime, suffering what appeared to be a leg injury.

The nine-time All-Star went up for a routine rebound but landed awkwardly and immediately appeared to be in discomfort, asking to be subbed out before heading to the visitors’ locker room.

Philadelphia later updated his status, announcing the six-time All-NBA selection would not return due to a left knee hyperextension. It’s the same knee and type of injury that caused George to miss the first five games of the season and most of the pre-season.

George exited the game with two points, two assists and four rebounds through 17:27 of floor time.

It’s no secret that Philadelphia has gotten off to a disappointing start this season, and after Wednesday’s loss are in sole possession of the league’s worst record at 2-12.

A major part of that has been injuries to the team’s star trio of George, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Wednesday’s matchup was just the first time the three stars had played together this season.

Aside from George, Embiid has only played in three games for the 76ers this year, missing time due to a combination of injury (knee) and suspension. Meanwhile, Maxey made his return against the Grizzlies after missing the team’s last seven games with a hamstring issue.

The 76ers made the biggest splash of the off-season by signing George to a four-year, $212 million max contract. And it’s safe to say the return on investment has been sub-optimal thus far. George is averaging 16.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.1 assists through seven appearances while shooting 39.6 per cent from the field and a career-low 28.8 per cent from distance.