A bombshell in the NBA! Philadelphia 76ers player Paul George has been suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA's drug program, the league announced Saturday. The NBA did not specify the nature of the violation or the substance involved. George released a statement to ESPN, acknowledging that he took a prescription drug. "not appropriate".
"I made the mistake of taking an inappropriate medication while seeking treatment for a personal problem." " admitted Paul George, who apologized to the team and the fans, stating that he took full responsibility "full responsibility for his actions."
A first offense
The 25-match suspension indicates that this is the first offence George. He began serving his suspension this Saturday, for the Philadelphia-New Orleans game. The sanction will cost him approximately 11,7 millionThat's nearly $470,000 per game missed. Part of that money will be converted into a credit to help Philadelphia reduce the luxury tax. Paul George should be eligible to return on March 25, when Philadelphia hosts Chicago. At that point, he will remain 10 regular season games.
What impact will this have on the team?
Before the suspension, the Sixers were 6th of the Eastern Conference with a record of 26-21. They have a record of 16-11 with George on the court and 10-10 without him. Without Paul George, the Sixers beat New Orleans 124-114 on Saturday night. Joel Embiid, a two-time NBA scoring champion, emphasized George's importance. "He's irreplaceable. He does everything for us, both defensively and offensively."
Coach Nick Nurse praised his professionalism "He's a real pleasure to coach. A very good teammate and a leader for the team."
This season, George is posting an average of 16 points in 27 gamesbehind Tyrese Maxey (29,4) and Joel Embiid (25,7). He scored 32 points with nine three-pointers during a game against Milwaukee. At 35 yearshe signed a contract $212 million over four years, but his first year in Philadelphia was marred by knee and adductor injuries, making it one of the most difficult seasons of his career.
Fragile mental health
Paul George described his first year in Philadelphia as "bottom of the abyss"Coach Nurse highlighted the team's support: "As with all our players, we care about them. We are here to help him and overcome this challenge." The player underwent surgery on his left knee in July and missed the First 12 games of the season.
The suspension could have a significant impact on the Sixers' decisions during the Push for the playoffsThe team will embark on a journey of five away games, starting Monday against the Los Angeles Clippers. But Nick Nurse remains positive: "It's a tough blow, but we have to fight and get to work."
