For the first time this season, Paul George played in back-to-back games for the Philadelphia 76ers. Unfortunately, his return to consistent play was short-lived, as he suffered another injury during Saturday’s matchup against the Chicago Bulls, much to the frustration of Sixers fans.
According to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the Sixers ruled George out for the second half after he injured his left pinky finger.
George finished the first half with nine points, one rebound and one assist, enough to help the Sixers secure a 109-97 win. Tyrese Maxey led the team with 31 points, five rebounds and nine assists, while Kelly Oubre Jr. stepped up with 22 points and 12 rebounds.
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Some Philadelphia 76ers expressed frustration over Paul George's latest injury. He has appeared in just 29 games in his first season in Philadelphia, averaging 17.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.8 steals.
"Sixers sign nothing but mental and physical piles of s**t … just disband the team," a fan tweeted.
"This is the first thing I see when I open Twitter? My god the injury luck with this team has to be studied," one fan claimed.
"Just when u started to give us some hope," another fan said.
Fans were particularly upset that George exited the game due to an injury to his pinky finger on his non-shooting hand. Their frustration is understandable, given George signed a four-year, $212 million deal in the offseason.
"My understanding is that it’s his non-shooting hand. Unless it’s shattered, he should be playing," a fan wrote.
"Leaving the game for a injury to your pinky is wild. Kobe would never," one fan quipped.
"What a b*tch. Injures pinky on non shooting hand and he calls it a night," another fan remarked.
Durability has been a concern for George throughout his career, but when healthy, he’s among the best players on the court. This season, George has already dealt with two minor knee injuries, prompting the Sixers to proceed cautiously.
Nick Nurse gives an update on Paul George's injury
Speaking to reporters after the game, head coach Nick Nurse provided an update on George’s pinky finger injury. While Nurse did not have full details, he confirmed that George is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Sunday, as reported by Sixers Wire.
The Philadelphia 76ers have three days off before facing the LA Lakers. Paul George is currently considered a game-time decision, with his status likely to be updated once the MRI results are revealed.
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