KEY POINTS
- The Paul George suspension is classified as a first violation under the NBA anti drug policy.
- George will forfeit about $11.7 million in salary during the ban.
- Philadelphia remains in playoff position but faces rotation pressure.
The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George for twenty five games for violating the league’s Anti Drug Program, the league said Saturday, sidelining the nine-time All-Star during a critical stretch of the regular season.
The Paul George suspension immediately reshapes the 76ers’ season as the team navigates the Eastern Conference playoff race without one of its highest paid players.
The NBA did not disclose the substance involved, consistent with collective bargaining rules.
Under the agreement with the National Basketball Players Association, a first offense typically results in a twenty five game suspension.
George is eligible to return March twenty five against Chicago. Philadelphia entered Saturday at 26-21 and sits sixth in the East.
NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum said in a statement that the league “continues to enforce its AntiBDrug Program consistently to protect competitive integrity.”
Sports economist Andrew Zimbalist of Smith College said the Paul George suspension highlights “the financial consequences embedded in guaranteed contracts,” noting lost salary can exceed eight figures for elite players.
76ers coach Nick Nurse said George has “been professional throughout the process.” NBPA Executive Director Tamika Tremaglio said the union “supports players through the league’s jointly negotiated program.”
The 76ers will have ten regular-season games remaining when George returns, leaving limited time for lineup continuity before the playoffs.
The Paul George suspension underscores how league policy enforcement can carry competitive and financial consequences that extend well beyond the individual player.
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