Paul George Debut: Maxey Lifts Sixers Over Clippers

Merlin sees Philadelphia escape a 110-108 nail-biter over the Clippers as Paul George made his season debut after a left-knee setback. George finished with nine points, seven rebounds, three assists and two blocks on 2-of-9 shooting, while Tyrese Maxey poured in 39. James Harden scored 28 but missed two potential game-winning threes; the Sixers moved to 8-5 and the Clippers fell to 4-10. Merlin notes the real story is Maxey’s takeover and a Sixers roster that can survive an off night from its new star. George’s touch was rusty, yet his defense and veteran calm showed value; Los Angeles’ late misses expose a team in a deeper slide. This felt like a necessary test — promising, but far from proof.