Par Guillaume Kagni | Journaliste sportif
Paul George will go down as the season’s biggest individual disappointment, having contributed virtually nothing to the Sixers. After returning to podcasts to occupy his vacations, he decided to justify his poor year. Injuries are a mitigating factor.
While the NBA is gradually unveiling its end-of-season trophies – we’re still waiting for the MVP, by the way – there are some unofficial accolades that nobody wants. For example, who in the league deserves the status of “worst disappointment of the year”? Collectively, it’s hard to vote for any franchise other than the Suns. On an individual level, Paul George also deserves the distinction.
Because when he signed with the Sixers last summer, it was to aim for the title. It was to take some of the weight off Joel Embiid’s shoulders and give Tyrese Maxey even more freedom. In the end, PG put in one of his worst seasons statistically and suffered a series of physical setbacks. Today, his future in Pennsylvania is even uncertain.
Paul George justifies his poor season in Philadelphia
After putting it on pause at the end of the regular season, the multiple All-Star decided to resume his podcast, and he invited entire personalities for the occasion. Gillie and Wallo are from Philadelphia, and they never mince their words, which prompted Paul George to be very honest with himself and the fans. He spoke about his terrible situation.
The most frustrating thing about last season was that I was in great shape, I spent the summer working on my body to get healthy. I arrived in Philadelphia and injured myself in the preseason. Because there were so many expectations of me, I didn’t take the time to fully recover. I wanted to play. But on the pitch, I felt something was wrong. I couldn’t move, but I didn’t know why.
In the end, I was diagnosed with an adductor muscle injury, which is why I couldn’t move as usual. The fans are tough in Philadelphia, but I’ve accepted it. They expect a lot, and I’m not one to shirk my responsibilities. I couldn’t give everything I had. Besides, I need Joel Embiid to be at my best.
Paul George blames his bad year on the knee injury he sustained in the preseason and subsequent setbacks. He would have returned to competition too quickly, driven by the desire to please Sixers fans. The excuse is valid for this inaugural season with the franchise, but beware: he’ll need to show real progress as soon as the new season gets underway. Otherwise, his future could be far from Philadelphia.