Paul George Returns: Rusty but Ready for 76ers

Long-Awaited Return: Paul George Back on the Court

In a much-anticipated moment for Philadelphia 76ers fans, star forward Paul George made his long-awaited season debut against the LA Clippers on November 18, 2025. After an eight-month hiatus due to knee surgery and injuries, George returned with a mix of visible rust and undeniable enthusiasm, helping the 76ers secure a dramatic 110-108 comeback victory.

Game Highlights: A Cautious Start

George played in five-minute stints at the start of all four quarters, logging 21 minutes total. He made an immediate impact by draining a catch-and-shoot 3-pointer just 58 seconds into the game, igniting the Wells Fargo Center crowd. Though his shooting efficiency was modest (2-for-9 from the field, 9 points), he contributed 7 rebounds and showcased his playmaking ability. His lone other field goal came on a short runner over Clippers center Ivica Zubac.

"It felt great to finally play basketball again. Been like eight months since I played, so it was a long journey. A lot of ups and downs, a lot of hiccups... but felt good to finally get out there, and I felt good. Rusty, but I felt good."

— Paul George, via ESPN

Team Context: Embiid and Oubre sidelined

George’s return comes amid significant injury concerns for the 76ers. All-Star center Joel Embiid missed his fourth consecutive game with right knee soreness, and forward Kelly Oubre Jr. was sidelined with a left knee sprain. Oubre’s absence forced George into the starting lineup, where he played alongside Tyrese Maxey (who led all scorers with 39 points). Embiid’s status remains day-to-day, with coach Nick Nurse indicating he is "not quite pain-free" but "getting better."

Despite the depleted roster, the 76ers overcame a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to secure the win. Maxey’s clutch down the stretch, including a go-ahead basket with 1:08 remaining, sealed the victory after former 76er James Harden missed two potential-tying 3-point attempts in the final seconds.

What’s Next: Minutes Management and Building Momentum

Coach Nick Nurse emphasized a cautious approach to George’s minutes, particularly with back-to-back games against the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks looming on the horizon. George’s playing time will be closely monitored by the medical team, with future increases dependent on his body’s response to game action.

For the 76ers, George’s return is a significant step toward full health. After playing only 41 games last season due to injuries, his presence on the court—even at a reduced capacity—provides much-needed depth and versatility. If he can gradually build his conditioning and rhythm, the 76ers could become a dangerous contender in the Eastern Conference.

As George himself noted, the journey back was filled with "hiccups," but his willingness to embrace the rust and focus on the bigger picture signals a positive outlook for the rest of the season.