Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been diagnosed with a bone bruise and no structural damage after hyperextending his left knee during a recent preseason game. The team confirmed this news on Tuesday.
Following an initial examination, coach Nick Nurse reassured reporters at the team’s New Jersey facility that everything looked fine. An MRI revealed the extent of George’s injury but indicated no serious issues.
The Sixers plan to reevaluate George’s condition in about a week. Prior to the injury, he was not expected to participate in the upcoming preseason game against Brooklyn.
George, a nine-time All-Star, sustained the injury during a defensive play in the second quarter of Monday’s matchup against Atlanta, where he contributed eight points in 12 minutes during a 104-89 win.
“I felt that it hyperextended, and immediately I knew I needed to be taken out and checked out, but honestly, I’m not too concerned about it,” George shared with The Philadelphia Inquirer.
The 76ers have been cautious with their star players, recently deciding to hold center Joel Embiid out for the remainder of the preseason due to what they termed left knee management.
George joined the 76ers this summer on a substantial four-year, $212 million contract, marking his fourth team in the NBA. He previously played seven seasons with the Indiana Pacers, two with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and five with the Los Angeles Clippers.
As a six-time All-NBA selection, George has averaged 20.8 points over his 14-year career in the league. His addition to the team was highly anticipated, especially alongside 2023 NBA MVP Joel Embiid and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey.
The trio of George, Embiid, and Maxey is expected to be one of the most formidable in the league, particularly as the Sixers aim to compete with the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics.
Last season was notable for George, as he played in 76 games, his first time surpassing 56 games since the 2018-19 season, highlighting his commitment to staying healthy and contributing to his team.