76ers' Embiid and George OUT for Season Opener vs. Bucks
- Joel Embiid and Paul George are set to miss the Philadelphia 76ers' season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks due to injuries.
- George suffered a bone bruise on his left knee and was expected to assess his condition later in the week, while Embiid has been dealing with knee issues that have affected his preseason participation.
- Both players aim to return to contribute significantly to the team's championship aspirations this season.
On October 22, 2024, the Philadelphia 76ers confirmed that All-Stars Joel Embiid and Paul George would be unavailable for the season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks due to injuries. George, who recently joined the team as a free agent after leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, suffered a bone bruise on his left knee during a preseason game. His recovery timeline is uncertain, and a reassessment will occur later this week. Meanwhile, Embiid has also faced challenges with his knee, which prevented him from participating in the preseason altogether. The 76ers have experienced difficulties in the playoffs in recent years, largely due to Embiid’s struggles with injuries. He has only played a maximum of 68 games in a season, which includes a limited participation last season due to knee surgery. Recognizing the importance of staying healthy for the postseason, Embiid expressed his commitment to improving his fitness and ensuring he is ready to contribute when it matters most. George, a nine-time All-Star, has expressed optimism regarding his recovery, suggesting that his return will not be extended. His experience and skills will be vital as the 76ers aim to advance beyond the second round of the playoffs, a goal they've struggled to achieve since 2001. Both players' health is critical for the team's plans as they seek their first championship since 1983, and their absence in early games may test the team’s depth and resilience going forward.