PG13 can easily be considered an All-Star caliber player. However, when it comes to PG8, a major question mark pops up. There’s no easy way of saying it, but “PG is a**,” at least, that’s how Shaquille O’Neal feels after Paul George’s recent struggles with the 76ers. That’s how difficult the transition has been for the 34-year-old forward. While the franchise is now again on the up, thanks to their recent run of wins with Joel Embiid back and firing, PG is falling short of the high standards expected of him. But that could now change as the player himself is hinting at better days ahead.

The discussion came up on Podcast P with Paul George when the host asked whether he believed he was fulfilling the No. 8 duties ever since he’s sporting the new number on his back. “No. Not at all,” George immediately dismissed it. “We won 9 games or something like that. We didn’t keep it a buck, bro. 9 and 17. I have not.” George was spot on in acknowledging that he hasn’t been the best version of himself in Philly.

However, the time has finally arrived when things could turn in the right direction. George said the words that the Sixers fanbase has been desperately waiting to hear. “I will say I think it’s a turning point because I finally feel my body is feeling good. I finally feel, you know, I’m not wearing a brace. I’m in shape. So, I finally feel comfortable, you know, with my body and stuff again. So, I think, you know, now it’s time to start to put the, you know, my foot on the pedal,” he added.

It’s certainly not age that has taken a toll on the veteran, one can easily see that when watching him perform, though such performances have been rare in the East lately. Rather, it’s the injuries that have caused him to suffer, leading to a significant dip in his numbers.

Injuries pile up contributing to Paul George’s struggles in Philadelphia

Last month, George struggled a lot with a bruised bone in his knee. He already had a hyperextension in the same area during the preseason. These injuries forced him to miss a chunk of games early this season as well. To be specific the first five season-opening games. Now that’s a real tragedy.

But it didn’t end there. As mentioned before, last month wasn’t any better for George either. He was sidelined during the Grizzlies game, and later reports indicated that he would have to remain off the court for a few games. The 9-time All-Star has appeared in 19 of the 29 games for the Eastern side, putting up an average of 15.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per night.

In Embiid’s absence, the heavy duties fell on George’s shoulders. Already weakened by injuries, he couldn’t fully showcase his skills, which led to struggles for both him and the team. It’s hard to believe that from a 5-15, the Philadelphia 76ers are now holding a 12-17 record. But now, with the confidence George has shown in his improved health, get ready to see those numbers rise.