No PG13: Paul George Out for 76ers' Opener vs Celtics

Merlin hears Paul George won’t suit up for Wednesday’s opener against the Celtics, per Shams Charania: “it is not expected that he will be suiting up for opening night.” Charania added George is “making significant progress after having offseason arthroscopic knee surgery, and a return to debut should be shortly into the regular season.” That absence matters — the 76ers were already hamstrung by injuries last year (Embiid 19 games, Maxey 52, George 41) and missing George to start delays chemistry and puts more early load on Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Merlin notes George’s pedigree — nine All-Star nods, six All-NBA, four All-Defense — but also the toll of age and injuries at 35. Last season he averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists; if he returns healthy and efficient, Philadelphia gains a true two-way secondary option. If not, the 76ers will test depth and tweak rotations while the calendar buys recovery time.