Paul George Faces Challenges Collaborating with Joel Embiid

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Paul George has spoken candidly about the difficulties of playing alongside Joel Embiid this NBA season, following the Philadelphia 76ers‘ 106-103 loss to the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday night. George stated that he expected the partnership would be challenging and that he is committed to figuring it out.

In 16 games alongside Embiid this season, George has averaged 13.9 points on 40.1% shooting, which contrasts with his 18.9 points on 45% shooting in 18 games without the All-Star center. Despite these statistics, George is determined to overcome the hurdles posed by collaboration with a unique player like Embiid, who stands at 7-foot-2 and dominates the ball.

“Absolutely, it’s been challenging. I’d be lying if I said I thought this would be an easy process,” George admitted. “But I’m here to learn and figure it out. He’s an unbelievable talent. He makes the game easy with just his presence.”

Despite George’s struggles, Embiid performed well against the Raptors, scoring 27 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, but acknowledged the team’s chemistry is still a work in progress. “We had our spells offensively. At times, it felt like we were still learning how to play with each other,” Embiid said.

The Sixers recently slid to their fourth consecutive loss and currently hold a disappointing 20-33 record for the season. Head coach Nick Nurse had to call an early timeout during the game due to the team’s sluggish start and defensive breakdowns, reiterating the need for improvement.

In the loss to Toronto, George struggled to establish a rhythm, shooting 5-for-12 from the floor, while teammate Tyrese Maxey recorded a season-low five points. Conversely, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes was instrumental for the Raptors, contributing 33 points, and Immanuel Quickley added 23.

The Sixers’ roster is currently dealing with multiple injuries, including Kyle Lowry, Eric Gordon, and Jared McCain. Nurse expressed concern over Lowry’s hip issue, anticipating a longer recovery period for the veteran guard. Meanwhile, opportunity was presented to bench players like Jared Butler, who made significant contributions during the game.

“Just want to win,” Butler stated. “If Philly gives me a chance to express my talent, I’m grateful for that.”

As the season progresses, George reaffirmed he is embracing the challenge of adapting to Embiid’s style of play. “I’m trying to see what he saw. A lot of times, we are aligned, but I’ve got to know his side of things, and vice versa. We are getting there,” George explained.

With the focus on improving their play as a unit, both George and Embiid acknowledge there is urgency to develop their on-court chemistry as the team attempts to recover from this current slump.