Biggest disappointments of the NBA 2024-25 season so far: Paul George

It's not unusual to see players struggle to embrace a different role with a new team. However, the sample size is big enough for Philadelphia 76ers fans to worry about Paul George.

The former All-Star was welcomed as the 76ers reinforcement who could lead them past the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference. So far, that hasn't been the case.

George sustained an undisclosed injury in the preseason and has not regained his usual rhythm since his return. Through 13 games this season, he's averaged 15.9 points, his lowest mark for an entire season since his second year in the league (2011-12). Also, the 76ers forward's stats for shooting - 41 percent from the floor, 31 percent from three, and 80 percent from the free-throw line - are all career lows if we don't count his rookie season.

Paul George knows he's not playing up to his standards, and he recently admitted that he still needs to find his groove with his new team:

“I think just moving a little more, just finding my way of moving,” George told Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer ahead of the game against the Charlotte Hornets.

“Running the floor a little bit better. I think we got to allow each other to create space. So I have to cut to the nail sometimes to allow Tyrese to play in the open court, then I got to do it. But I think for sure, just more clarity for myself.”

With that in mind, we shed light on three reasons why the former Los Angeles Clippers star is most likely struggling.

What's happening to Paul George? 3 reasons why he's struggling

#3) Age factor

For starters, Paul George is no spring chicken. Time spares no victims and George has overcome multiple injuries in the past, including one of the most gruesome in NBA history.

George is 34 years old and seems to be losing a step. The athleticism is the first thing to go away, and if he can't be an aggressive driver, his offense becomes more one-dimensional.

#2) Catch-and-shoot opportunities

The Sixers needed to improve in catch-and-shoot situations, and Paul George seemed perfect for that. He was 12th in the league last season in catch-and-shoot points per game (6.6) in 2023 while attempting 5.0 shots and knocking them down at a 46 percent clip.

His attempts, makes and efficiency are way down this season. The small forward could register only 2.5 catch-and-shoot attempts per game and average 2.0 catch-and-shoot points per game on 28 percent from the floor. Nick Nurse needs to give him more opportunities to do what he does best.

#1) Mental health

Last but not least, we cannot overlook the mental aspect of the game. George has admitted to going through some mental health issues multiple times in the past, and shooting slumps are also partially mental. It's like a never-ending cycle that players keep on the back of their heads and start pressing.

Paul George left the West Coast to move all across the country, leaving his hometown and family behind to pursue a championship in Philadelphia. We can only assume that it has taken a toll on a veteran like him.