There is one franchise in the NBA universe that is desperately praying to the basketball gods. Every team is doing it to be honest, but the Philadelphia 76ers… they truly need a miracle. A skinny Joel Embiid hasn’t been wearing the blue and gray for scrimmages. And Paul George? Well, the arthroscopic left knee surgery will keep him away for a while. However, there is hope.

Take a step back in time. The Athletic’s Zach Harper reported that PG13 had left knee surgery in July, and the team will re-evaluate him before training camp, leaving his return uncertain. Harper highlighted that George has played only 304 games in six seasons, averaging just over 50 per year. With the Sixers, it’s safer to brace for setbacks while hoping for the best.

Looks like Harper’s words came true. Addressing the media on Friday, the veteran point guard shared his latest health updates, claiming that he is fit enough for everything but full-contact training only. Paul George: “I won’t be, I don’t think, a part of camp going into it, but I do have a voice in being a part of the team to help the young guys…” PG also added that he’s feeling good, but he has to work his way back to the court from the injury. George said he can do almost everything except full contact. He’s right there, just needs a bit more time.

Adding PG13 to the Sixers roster never guaranteed a title run. Even with Joel Embiid leading The Process and Tyrese Maxey thriving, injuries always loomed largest. Embiid’s absences weighed heavily on the team, and George’s addition did little to shift the balance. The Sixers’ health struggles snowballed into a nightmare, compounding questions around chemistry and durability.

The power trio managed only 112 combined games, with just 15 together on the court. PG is likely to miss training camp and the entire preseason, keeping Philly’s new hope sidelined. Last season, George averaged a career-low 16.2 points per game since 2011, though he still contributed 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Injuries stole 41 games, leaving fans to wonder if his spark faded too soon.

Well, let’s not forget the struggles of adjusting to a new system. George had been the face of the LA Clippers for six seasons before moving to Philly. Most importantly, Paul George understands the urgency and believes that he’s off to a better season this upcoming 2025-26 NBA season.

Paul George sends a clear message to Philly fans on media day

“For me coming into this, I know the situation, I know where I’m needed, and I’m comfortable within the locker room, coaching staff, and front office. I know what role I can play as a veteran and a leader in developing our young guys and getting them as prepared as possible,” George shared.

Last year was chaotic, and moving to Philadelphia felt like a leap of faith, but now everything is settled. Paul George knows where his family will live, where the kids will go to school, and what house they’ll stay in. With familiar teammates and coaching staff, relationships are built, routines are steady, and another year together promises sharper efficiency and stronger chemistry.

“I definitely feel more prepared going into the season, with a better understanding of the fit and role. Last year was a challenge,” PG13 added. “It was tough trying to play at 80–85% while learning a new system. A new offense, new players, and a coach who runs things differently. It was rough, a tough year.” Therefore, “Going into this season, I understand where I’m at, what to expect, and over time, you’ll get better, understand, and develop your style. I think I’m off to a better start this season.”

The Philadelphia 76ers are walking a tightrope between hope and heartbreak. Injuries have stolen momentum, and the power trio barely touched the floor together. Yet Paul George is back in the mix, almost ready, and finally settled in. With familiar faces, clearer roles, and lessons learned, Philly’s stars are poised to turn chaos into chemistry. This season, the 76ers aim to rewrite their story, and there is no doubt that they have the players to do so, even if the lack of fitness has been constant.