Paul George‘s suspension has sent shockwaves through Philadelphia, not only because of what it means for the 76ers on the court, but because of the staggering financial toll it carries for one of the league’s most recognizable stars.
The NBA announced Saturday that Paul George has been suspended without pay for 25 games after violating the league’s anti-drug program.
While the NBA did not disclose the substance involved, the punishment is among the most severe in recent seasons and comes at a critical point in the 76ers‘ campaign.
According to ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks, the suspension will cost George a remarkable $11,742,293 in lost salary. The financial impact does not stop there.
Philadelphia will receive a luxury-tax variance credit of $5,871,147, and George will be moved to the suspended list after the fifth game, allowing the team to temporarily add another player to the roster.
George had been finding his rhythm in recent games, highlighted by a 32-point outburst against Milwaukee earlier in the week.
His final appearance before the suspension came Thursday against Sacramento, where he scored 15 points in a narrow win.
George, who is averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists this season, chose not to appeal the league’s ruling.
In a statement shared to ESPN, the veteran forward acknowledged his mistake and explained the context behind the violation.
“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,” George said.
“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.
“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.”
George will be eligible to return on March 25 against Chicago, at which point Philadelphia will have just 10 regular-season games remaining.
By then, the Sixers will have navigated a long stretch without one of their most experienced two-way players.
What it means for Philadelphia
The immediate challenge for the Philadelphia 76ers is competitive. At 26-21, they sit sixth in the Eastern Conference, clinging to playoff positioning in a crowded race.
While the emergence of Tyrese Maxey has helped stabilize the offense, replacing George‘s versatility on both ends of the floor will be difficult.
Beyond the standings, the suspension complicates Philadelphia‘s approach ahead of the trade deadline.
The tax relief provides flexibility, but the uncertainty around George‘s availability could make the front office hesitant to make a win-now move.
For George personally, the suspension represents more than a financial hit. At 35, with over 19,000 career points and a Hall of Fame résumé still being written, the lost games are time he cannot get back.
For the Sixers, the hope is that when he returns, the damage to both the standings and momentum has not already been done.
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