Shams Charania reveals Paul George’s possible return timeline to Philadelphia 76ers after challenging offseason rehab

According to sources, ESPN's Shams Charania informed on Thursday that Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George is anticipated to miss the opening night due to his recovery from the offseason knee surgery.

Charania also gave an update on George's recovery.

On Wednesday, the 2010 first-round pick is not anticipated to play against Boston. Charania further said that after having an arthroscopic operation on his left knee in July, George has made great strides and may make his 2025–26 debut shortly into the regular season.

Shams Charania reveals important Paul George return timeline for Philadelphia 76ers

On Friday night, the Philadelphia 76ers will play the Minnesota Timberwolves to wrap up their preseason. The 76ers will next travel to play the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night to begin their regular season. Paul George has not played in the 76ers' first three preseason games. Following an injury sustained during a workout, the star forward underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in July. Talking about his possible return, Shams Charania said:"I've been talking to people in Paul George's camp, and I'm told that it is not expected that he will be suiting up for opening night next Wednesday in Boston.”

George's recovery is reportedly going well, according to Charania. The Philadelphia 76ers can anticipate his return "shortly" after the regular season begins. Charania also said:"He still has some check marks he has to hit from his rehab process..

Because, remember, Paul George never got right last season--after having a hyper-extended knee. He had multiple other knee injuries in the preseason, early in the year, and every time he really rushed back, because of not only the Sixers' start to the year, the other injuries.He then added:"This team has Joel Embiid, other players. That was his first season in Philly as well. So Paul George never had the chance to be fully himself, fully healthy.

And that's why being back exactly when he feels like he can be comfortable and sustain his health. That's been a big part of all this--to not have a repeat of last season."According to insiders, he is making great strides but still needs to meet certain requirements before participating in a regular-season game. George is anticipated to make his debut early in the regular season.

Paul George’s versatile talent shines despite injury setbacks

Due to many injuries to his left knee and problems with his finger and groin, George only made 41 games in his first season in Philadelphia.

The Sixers owe George over $212 million, and it was a terrible way to start a four-year contract.

George was due for a follow-up assessment in September after having an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee in July for an injury he got while working out. His debut season with the 76ers was marked by an average of 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. The knee injury prevented Philadelphia from having the season they had hoped for. The 76ers had the third-worst record in the Eastern Conference after finishing with a 24-58 record. However, after George’s return, they are hoping for a comeback. Also read: Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe meets NBA legend Dwyane Wade in surreal full-circle moment at Aramis event