Unfortunately for the 76ers, they won't have Paul George at their disposal until late March.
George, a nine-time All-Star, is averaging 16.0 points and 5.1 rebounds per game for Philadelphia this season. He's just four days removed from dropping 32 points in a 139-122 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Now, he'll have to spend several weeks watching his teammates from the sideline.
On Saturday morning, the NBA announced that George has been suspended for violating the league's anti-drug program.
"Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been suspended without pay for violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program, it was announced today by the NBA," the press release stated. "George's suspension will begin with tonight's game between the 76ers and New Orleans Pelicans at Xfinity Mobile Arena."
Paul George comments on his suspension.
Immediately after this suspension was announced, George owned up to this mistake. He will not appeal the NBA's decision.
"Over the past few years, I've discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision making during this process," George said, via ESPN's Shams Charania. "I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return."
The 76ers are currently in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings. We'd have to imagine George's absence will seriously impact their hopes of avoiding the play-in tournament.
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