Paul George Returns: Sixers' Lifeline vs. Clippers

Merlin sees Paul George is "expected to make his season debut" tonight against his former team after missing the first 12 games following arthroscopic left-knee surgery. Philadelphia is 7-5 but thin — Joel Embiid has played only six games, key role players are dinged, and Tyrese Maxey is logging ungodly minutes — so George's return matters as a creator, wing defender and pressure valve for Maxey. Merlin notes George's first year in Philly was muted by injuries, and at 35 he may not regain All-NBA peaks. Still, his ability to score off the dribble, hit catch-and-shoot shots and handle secondary playmaking could quickly steady this fragile roster. If he stays healthy and Embiid returns steadier, the Sixers move from wounded to dangerous.