Philadelphia 76ers head coach Nick Nurse provided an optimistic update on Paul George’s knee injury Tuesday, stating that the hyperextended knee “checks out OK” but that the team was awaiting further imaging to assess the situation. Later that day, the 76ers confirmed that an MRI revealed a bone bruise but no structural damage, told AP News. George will be re-evaluated in one week, leaving his availability for the season opener uncertain.
The 76ers are set to open their season on October 23 at home against the Milwaukee Bucks, and the news about George’s knee puts his participation in question. The injury occurred during Monday’s preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks, when George awkwardly planted his foot in the first half, causing his knee to bend. He did not return to the game after halftime.
Speaking after the game, George downplayed concerns about the injury. “I’m not too concerned going forward of what this injury is,” George told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “It’ll just be a little time.”
Coach Nurse echoed George’s calm outlook, telling reporters on Tuesday that the initial evaluation was positive. “PG was here today. Got it looked at again. Everything checked out OK,” Nurse said, while confirming that more imaging was still necessary. “They are gonna do some further imaging this afternoon to see if there’s anything else.” Nurse also noted that George remained in good spirits despite the setback.
George joined the 76ers in a high-profile trade from the Los Angeles Clippers during the offseason and signed a four-year, $212 million max contract as part of the deal. The nine-time All-Star was acquired to bolster Philadelphia’s championship aspirations alongside fellow stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
The 76ers have made the playoffs for the last seven seasons but have not progressed beyond the second round during that span. Last season, injuries to Embiid hindered the team’s performance, leading to a No. 7 seed and a first-round exit to the New York Knicks. This season, the 76ers are hoping that George’s arrival will provide the added firepower to make a deeper playoff run.
Embiid, who has also been dealing with knee issues, is not participating in preseason games as he focuses on recovery. The team provided a brief update on Sunday, stating, “As part of his left knee management, Joel Embiid was assessed by doctors on Thursday. Embiid is progressing well and will continue to take part in an individual treatment plan designed to best support his health and wellness for the 2024-25 season.”
The 76ers indicated that Embiid will miss this week’s preseason games, but further updates on his condition will be given when necessary. As the team prepares for the regular season, they will be closely monitoring the recovery of both George and Embiid in hopes of having their star players ready for a strong start.