The Philadelphia 76ers may be exploring the possibility of trading Paul George as part of a draft-related move, according to recent speculation. As the NBA Draft approaches, the team is reportedly weighing whether to keep their pick or use it in a larger package deal. NBA insider Chris Mannix suggested that George's name has surfaced in trade chatter over the past 24 hours. Certainly, it has raised questions about the Sixers’ strategy moving forward. This development signals potential shakeups in Philly’s roster construction heading into the new season. But from the Sixers’ point of view, George’s injury has been a major concern for the team.
Paul George’s future with the Philadelphia 76ers is uncertain as the Sixers explore trade options
The Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George’s season-ending injury has been a major concern for the team. Just ahead of the NBA draft deadline, new reports indicate that the Sixers are looking for options to move George.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, the Sixers have been planning to trade George amid his injury concerns.
“I don’t know what Philadelphia is going to do here. Do they just sit on that draft pick and take it? Or do they try to package it? Is Paul George in play? I’ve heard some of that over the last 24 hours—that they could be looking to trade back with Paul George to do something there,” Mannix shared.
The new speculation of George being in the trade talk came two days after the recent trade buzz. It was reported that the team has no plans to move the All-Star forward this offseason. George, who signed a four-year, $212 million deal just last season, appears to be staying put.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the rumors linking George to draft-night trade talks have been overstated. The 76ers aren't exploring deals involving the No. 3 pick or trying to offload George on his own. For now, the franchise seems committed to building around him.
“Recent reports suggesting that the Sixers will be looking to explore George’s trade market in conjunction with the draft are a misread. There have been no indications that they are looking to package George with the No. 3 pick or try to move him on his own,” Fischer shared.
The 76ers' forward was ruled out for the rest of the regular season. The team confirmed he received injections in his left knee and left adductor muscle. He was expected to miss around six weeks while recovering.
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NBA Offseason Trade: Boston Celtics sent Kristaps Porzingis to Atlanta Hawks in blockbuster three-team dealGeorge joined the Sixers last offseason but never fully hit his stride. In 41 games, he averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. The nine-time All-Star struggled to stay consistent throughout the 2024–25 campaign.