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The Philadelphia 76ers will start their season without Paul George, who is recovering from offseason knee surgery. ESPN's Shams Charania reports that George will not play in the season opener against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday (October 18). The 35-year-old forward is making significant progress but still needs to meet certain recovery milestones before returning to regular-season play.
George, a nine-time All-Star, underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in July after an injury during a workout. He participated in some five-on-five practice sessions recently, but coach Nick Nurse expressed skepticism about his availability for the opener. "Yesterday was his first day live," Nurse said. "We have to just keep waiting."
Last season, George struggled with multiple injuries, appearing in only 41 games and averaging 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. The 76ers, also missing key players like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey for significant stretches, finished with a disappointing 24-58 record.
The team hopes George's extended recovery time will allow him to return to form and contribute effectively alongside Embiid and Maxey. Despite his age and injury history, the 76ers are optimistic about George's potential impact once he returns.
Philadelphia will conclude its preseason against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday (October 20), with hopes of having George back "shortly" into the regular season, according to Newsweek.