The Paul George suspension storyline has become one of the biggest twists of the 76ers’ season, and the forward says the time off changed how he feels on and off the court. George said his mood has improved, with his family, parents, and teammates all noticing the difference as he returned to action and played with more confidence. The shift has come as Philadelphia enters the postseason with George healthier, more expressive, and coming off a season-high scoring burst.
Paul George Suspension Brings a Different Version of the Forward
George’s 25-game suspension for taking improper medication was first met with frustration from 76ers fans, especially after injuries had already limited him for much of the 2024-25 season. But when he returned against the Chicago Bulls on March 25, the response changed fast. He struggled early, missed eight of his first 10 shots, and had just five points at halftime, then caught fire in the second half and drew major cheers after making three straight shots.
Since then, George has looked more explosive and more comfortable. He has found more separation off the dribble and delivered his highest-scoring games of his Sixers career so far. George said the time away “unlocked” him and allowed him to play aggressively, while also giving his body time to heal and recover from the pounding and wear and tear of the NBA schedule.
What Paul George Suspension Time Changed Behind the Scenes
George said he was still working during the suspension, even if he could not be around the team for games. He was regularly at the team facility, worked on scout team duties to mimic players such as Luka Dončić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and spent extensive time with rookie VJ Edgecombe. George, 35, called Edgecombe like a “little brother, ” and Edgecombe has credited George with helping him grow.
Kelly Oubre Jr. said George has stayed poised even when things have not gone his way and added that he is starting to “spread his wings” in Philadelphia. George himself said the emotions that had been suppressed while he was trying to play through physical limits are now showing again, including more energy, more expression, and more visible joy.
A Big Night, Then a Bigger Test Ahead
That renewed edge showed up in a major way when George led the 76ers with a season-high 39 points in a 153-131 win over the Wizards. He shot 69. 2% from the field and went 6-for-12 from beyond the arc, while Tyrese Maxey added 28 points and 9 assists and Edgecombe posted 23 points and 10 assists. The victory came even with Joel Embiid out because of illness.
The turnaround has changed the tone around George, but the next stage will matter more. Philadelphia will enter the postseason with a healthier George and a player who says he feels freer than he has in a long time, and the Paul George suspension has now become part of a much larger question about how far this version of him can carry the Sixers.
