TITLE: Paul George Draws 25-Game Suspension for Anti-Drug Policy Violation
SLUG: paul-george-suspended-25-games-drug-policy-violation
CONTENT:
The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George for 25 games without pay after determining he violated the league’s joint anti-drug program, the league announced Friday.
The ban begins with Saturday’s matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, sidelining George until March 25, when the Sixers face the Chicago Bulls. He will miss all but the club’s final 10 regular-season contests.
In a statement released through ESPN’s Shams Charania, George said he took “an improper medication” while seeking treatment for mental-health issues. “I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision making,” he said, adding that he plans to use the time away to prepare “mind and body” for his return.
The suspension could affect Philadelphia’s push to remain in the Eastern Conference’s top six. The team enters the weekend 26-21 and sits sixth in the standings.
Financially, the Sixers will receive a $5,871,147 luxury-tax variance credit, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. That adjustment leaves the club approximately $1.26 million above the tax threshold, potentially making a small salary move before the trade deadline enough to avoid the penalty.
George, 35, has averaged 16.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 27 appearances this season. The suspension will cost him $11,742,293 in salary. After the first five games of the ban, Philadelphia may shift him to the suspended list, which would free a temporary roster spot for the remaining 20 games of the suspension.
The six-time All-Star signed a four-year maximum contract with the 76ers in July 2024 but has been limited by injuries and ongoing knee management since arriving in Philadelphia.
Source: Hoops Rumors
