Paul Geroge Shines in His 76ers Debut
By Keith Mado October 14, 2024 09:30
It might take some time to get used to, but nine-time NBA All-Star Paul George started the newest chapter of his career in Philadelphia with a bang. George signed a 4-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers earlier in the offseason after fallouts with the Los Angeles Clippers. With much hype and anticipation, PG immediately made his presence felt during his preseason debut with his new squad.
Philly’s President of Basketball Operations, Daryl Morey, spoke about the franchise’s decision to gamble on the 34-year-old vet: “We were taking what we thought was the best plan to keep ourselves in title contention, but it definitely was a risky plan,” Morey told The Athletic. “They don’t always work out, but we felt like all the other plans were worse.” It may be a “risky plan,” but PG’s debut proved that replacing Tobias Harris with Paul George is a no-brainer.
The Sixers, still without their MVP, Joel Embiid, suited up against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Wells Fargo Arena on Friday for an NBA preseason showcase. From the get-go, George took the reins and led his new team on both sides of the court. PG finished the game with a game-high 23 points, six rebounds, and four makes from deep, shooting an efficient 54% from the field. While his All-Star running mate, Tyrese Maxey, chipped in with 21 points, shooting 50% from the floor.
But despite their heroics, the 76ers succumbed to the new-look Minnesota Timberwolves 111-121. The Wolves, who traded away their then-cornerstone, Karl Anthony-Towns, looked impressive in their first two preseason games. We have yet to see how the addition of former All-Star Julius Randle shapes their system, but it seems like their other acquisition, sharp shooter Donte DiVincenzo, fits in like a glove. It won’t be a surprise if head coach Chris Finch would heavily utilize the former Villanova standout due to his ability to space the floor and contribute on both ends of the court, something they will surely miss from KAT. The Sixers aim to bounce back against the defending champions, the Boston Celtics, at TD Garden, while the Wolves are keen to keep their win streak alive when they march to MSG to face KAT and the Knicks.
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