76ers' Paul George Out vs. Lakers with Injury; Joel Embiid Will Miss Next 2 Games

Another day, another injury update for the Philadelphia 76ers.

The team announced Monday that Paul George will miss Tuesday's matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers after having an MRI on his finger, while Joel Embiid is out for the next two games due to his lingering knee concerns.

Embiid, 30, has yet again dealt with a litany of injuries this season, including issues with his left knee, a left foot sprain and a fractured right sinus. The result has been just 13 appearances on the season, with the big man averaging 24.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and a block per game.

George, 34, has been healthier, playing in 30 total games. But he's struggled to find his footing in the team's offense, averaging a disappointing 17.1 points and 4.7 assists per game.

The Sixers, meanwhile, have barely had the star trio of Embiid, George and Tyrese Maxey on the court together, leading to a 17-27 record.

That's been nothing short of a massive disappointment after the offseason acquisition of George had Philadelphia more than a little excited about its title chances in the 2024-25 season. And while the Sixers could still fight their way back into the postseason picture, it likely will have to come through the Play-In Tournament and, should they survive that, a very difficult first-round matchup.

The Sixers have never gotten past the second round of the playoffs with Embiid in the post-Process era. It remains one of the few blights on the former MVP's career résumé. Injuries have played a role throughout his career, as has a rotating cast of supporting stars and role players.

It appeared that the 2024-25 season might be different. George, on paper, was a fantastic fit next to Embiid and Maxey as a floor-stretching, two-way wing who could create his own shot when needed. But he hasn't been a seamless fit just yet, and the Sixers have a constant spate of injuries to overcome, leading to a seemingly different rotation every few games.

If Philly's injury issues persist, the Sixers won't be a contender. With Embiid out another two games, Guerschon Yabusele and Adem Bona will see time at the 5, while George's absence means more minutes for players like Ricky Council IV and Justin Edwards.