Paul George is calling last season the lowest point of his career, but he believes he’s finally on the way up. Speaking with Kyle Neubeck, the 76ers forward said his health is improving and he expects to be in a much better place by opening night.
“I think I’m getting better and better [health-wise]…this next couple of weeks is very important leading into the start of the season, opening night,” said George. “I do think I will be at a good place, hopefully earlier than later. Can’t get any worse than last year. That was a rock bottom type of season.”
Paul George has been through difficult times before on the basketball court. Back in 2014, he broke his leg in a gruesome injury during a USA basketball scrimmage in Las Vegas. He was carried off the court on a stretcher and missed most of the 2014-15 campaign in recovery.
That stretch was considered to be the worst of George’s career, until his latest stint in Philadelphia, which has left everyone disappointed. After signing for the max in 2024, George was expected to help bring a championship to the 76ers alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Instead, they struggled from the very start to keep up with heightened expectations.
Amid injuries, setbacks, and countless other obstacles, the 76ers experienced a hellish season where they never really had a chance to compete. They finished 13th in the East at 34-58, not even enough to qualify for the play-in.
For George’s part, he had one of his worst statistical seasons to date. In just 41 games, he averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game on 43.0% shooting. He was inconsistent offensively and was not available for half of his team’s games.
Going into the next campaign, George believes a more successful outcome is possible, and he’s hopeful for brighter days. Joel Embiid’s new frame and improving health are signs that he may be ready for a major comeback, while George’s confidence shows he hasn’t lost faith in his abilities.
The 76ers didn’t make any major additions this summer, but the developing chemistry of their “big three” may be enough to make them competitive in the East and break out of a cycle of failure years in the making. It would at least somewhat redeem their shortcomings from last season.
The best part is, things can only go up from here. Philly may not be the favorite to win the title, but they are set to get better with a fresh start and a new season to figure things out. With another three years and $160 million on his deal, George will be part of the process either way, and he knows how much of their future is riding on his success.
For Paul George, last season was a nightmare he doesn’t want to repeat. Now, with a renewed focus on his health and a chance to reset, the veteran forward is determined to prove he still has more to give. If he and Embiid can stay on the floor, the 76ers might finally have a season worth remembering.
