The Philadelphia 76ers made waves this summer season by touchdown Paul George with a hefty four-year, $212 million contract.
George, a seasoned veteran with 14 NBA seasons below his belt, brings a powerful resume to his fourth crew.
The nine-time All-Star and six-time All-NBA choice has maintained a strong 20.8-point common all through his profession.
Friday evening marked a pivotal second as George donned the Sixers jersey for the primary time, dealing with off in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves at a impartial venue.
Becoming a member of a beginning lineup that included Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre, Caleb Martin, and Andre Drummond, George wasted no time displaying why the 76ers invested so closely in him.
Regardless of a 121-111 loss to the Timberwolves, George’s preseason debut was nothing wanting spectacular.
He led the Sixers with 23 factors, sinking 8 of 15 pictures in his 26 minutes on the courtroom.
His sharp-shooting was on full show as he knocked down 4 3-pointers, whereas additionally contributing six rebounds and two assists.
Paul George’s first half in 76ers debut:
18 factors
0 turnovers (!!!)
6/12 FG
4/8 3PPG-8 is COOKIN 🔥 pic.twitter.com/dOJbgr85hV
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 12, 2024
The 76ers’ choice to signal George to a max deal wasn’t with out threat.
His latest historical past of accidents – enjoying greater than 56 video games solely as soon as previously 5 seasons – raised some issues, particularly contemplating Joel Embiid’s personal damage monitor report.
Nevertheless, the crew acknowledged the necessity for an additional star participant to compete within the fiercely aggressive Jap Convention.
With powerhouses just like the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, and Indiana Pacers vying for dominance, the 76ers are banking on George to raise their sport.
If his preseason efficiency is any indication, it appears their gamble would possibly simply repay, probably propelling them into critical rivalry within the playoff-packed East.
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