March 5, 2026, 7:17 p.m. ET

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George has 10 games left on his 25-game suspension for violating the league’s anti-drug policy and the Sixers could certainly use his presence out on the floor. The 9-time All-Star was averaging 16.0 points and shooting 38.2% from deep while providing great defense before his suspension.

Throughout this time off the floor, coach Nick Nurse and Co. have wanted George to be involved with the team in practices and shootarounds. The Sixers have been happy with what they have received from the 16-year veteran despite being sidelined.

“He’s doing really good,” said Nurse. “I think that he’s really involved with everything we’re doing. Practices, shootarounds, film sessions up until game day. So, from that standpoint—he’s doing a lot of individual workouts, too. I know you guys have probably seen some of them that have gone on as well.”

When George is eligible to return on March 25 against the Chicago Bulls, it is going to be a 10-game sprint to the playoffs. That isn’t exactly a lot of time to get him back in shape, on the same page again with everybody, and find his rhythm before the playoffs start. Throw in the fact that there is a back-to-back in there and a chance he might not play in the season finale on April 12, and that leaves maybe even only eight games for him to get it together.

Therefore, the Sixers have been working with George in order to make sure he is game-ready for when the time comes.

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“We’re trying to get to the point where we’re trying to get him to the point where he’s—first of all, we want him involved, right?” Nurse explained. “Trying to get some of his veteran leadership even though he’s not getting on the court and doing stuff, he can still help these guys which he’s doing a decent job of. Just really wanna keep him sharp by pushing him pretty hard physically. To be as sharp as possible when he returns.”

It will certainly be something to watch for the Sixers when the time comes around. George is, obviously, important to everything they want to do going forward, and that final stretch of the season will be telling for Philadelphia’s playoff chances.