In a devastating update for Philadelphia 76ers fans, forward Paul George has been officially ruled out for the remainder of the regular NBA season. The announcement comes after George received injections for injuries to his left adductor muscle and knee earlier this week.

At 34 years old, George has faced a challenging season marred by health concerns, playing through multiple injuries including groin, finger, and knee issues. Recent reports indicate that he had been relying on painkiller injections for five consecutive games leading up to the NBA All-Star break in February. The organization confirmed that George will be sidelined for at least six weeks, effectively ending his season as the 76ers fight to reclaim a spot in the playoffs.

Despite George signing a lucrative four-year, $212 million contract with the 76ers last July after a solid five-season stint with the LA Clippers, his performance has been hindered by injury setbacks. Throughout 41 games this season, he averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. His struggles began in the preseason with a hyperextended left knee, forcing him to miss the first five games of the regular season. More knee trouble followed in November, and he also sustained a pinkie injury in January. Most recently, left groin soreness kept him off the court for the past four games.

This season marks George’s fewest games played since 2021-22, joining an unfortunate trend where he has played fewer than 60 games in five of the last six seasons. In a strategy to focus on his health, George announced last month that he would step back from his podcast, “Podcast P with Paul George.” "I haven't been the healthiest, so I'm putting in a ton of work towards getting my body as healthy as possible and focusing on turning things around for the team," he explained.

The 76ers have also faced their fair share of injuries, with MVP candidate Joel Embiid being ruled out for the rest of the season back on February 28. This culmination of health woes has led to a disappointing campaign for the once-promising team, which entered the 2024-25 season as favorites for the championship but now finds itself desperate for a lottery draft pick.

As the playoff picture sharpens, the 76ers’ hopes hinge on a healthy and recharged squad for next season. Fans will be anxiously waiting to see if George can return to form and help lead the team back to contention!