Will Paul George Play Against the Nets? Nick Nurse Provides Update on Sixers Star After Gruesome Injury

Philadelphia 76ers’ prized acquisition, Paul George, left the court in their preseason matchup against the Hawks because of a ‘hyperextended’ left knee. The hooper did not return for the rest of the game and later said, “I’m not too concerned about it (the injury).” However, there has not been much of an official statement about the severity of PG’s setback ever since. Finally, now Coach Nick Nurse has updated the community.

As Derek Bodner reported, Nick Nurse says that “everything checks out okay” regarding Paul George’s hyper-extended left knee but notes that “they will do further imaging later today.”

The report also confirmed, “George will not play in tomorrow’s preseason game.” The imaging will ensure there are no bigger issues for the veteran, as he has a track record of injuries.

The 9x All-Star’s knee was pictured in an awkward position during a defensive play in the second quarter of the last game. He was guarding Jalen Johnson and his right knee ‘hyper-extended’ while landing after the hooper was pushed back.

Paul George contributed 8 points in the 12 minutes he was on the court and the Sixers ended up winning the game 104-89. But, the Philly management is not taking any risks with their star players. They already have ruled out Joel Embiid from the preseason for what they are calling left knee injury management.

The team knows how important it is to keep their best duo fit for the season. Well, in The Process’ absence, Paul George had stepped up and helped the 76ers. Let’s talk about what he brings to the table for the championship-barren side.

Paul George’s impact on the Sixers

Paul George has had a fantastic start to life in Philadelphia. The 34-year-old announced himself in his debut preseason game against the Wolves by scoring 23 points. The hooper also had 6 rebounds and assisted twice. He has stepped into Joel Embiid’s role alongside the Big 3’s Tyrese Maxey, who has also shown great preseason form and also scored 21 points in the 111-121 loss against Minnesota.

When Joel Embiid does return to the court, as Coach Nurse said, “We are right on course with the plan we’ve kind of set out,” could return as early as the season’s opening night. The trio of Embiid, Maxey, and George would’ve been a wonderful sight for the fans. But, now with Paul George’s injury, patience is key, isn’t it? It will be intriguing to see how the Big 3 will perform this season.

Expectations have risen even further. However, injuries will be a concern for Joel Embiid and Paul George, given their history. PG was at his fittest last season when he played 80 games, including the playoffs for the Clippers. If he can maintain this for the upcoming season + Philly’s former MVP stays healthy for the season’s majority, then Eastern Conference contenders suddenly mean business.

Will the Sixers make the Playoffs? Will Embiid and George stay fit? Let us know your predictions below in the comments.