In a thrilling showdown on Monday night, the Philadelphia 76ers achieved a dramatic 110-108 come-from-behind victory over the LA Clippers, highlighted by the return of star forward Paul George. After undergoing surgery on his left knee in July, George made his long-awaited comeback, marking his first game since March. He expressed relief and excitement to be back on the court after what he described as a challenging eight-month journey filled with ups and downs.
During his 21 minutes of play, George contributed nine points and seven rebounds, coming off the bench in five-minute bursts throughout the game. He was crucial in helping the 76ers overturn a significant 13-point deficit. George wasted no time showcasing his skills, nailing a catch-and-shoot three-pointer within the first minute and sealing two free throws after being fouled on another three-point attempt. “It felt great to finally play basketball again,” he shared, reflecting on his initial shot and noting the mix of emotions he felt despite trying to stay focused on the game.
While George’s performance was hindered somewhat by rust—evident in his 2-for-9 shooting—his impact was felt, particularly in a game that saw teammates like Tyrese Maxey shine, with Maxey leading all scorers with 39 points. The 76ers’ victory was secured even as George watched from the bench in the crucial moments of the final quarter.
The win was particularly significant given that star center Joel Embiid sat out for the fourth consecutive game due to right knee soreness. Coach Nick Nurse has expressed optimism about Embiid’s return, suggesting that he is not far off from rejoining the lineup. Meanwhile, forward Kelly Oubre Jr. was out due to a left knee sprain, which George filled in for admirably.
The 76ers managed to pull through even when faced with the challenge of closing out the game, during which former Philadelphia star James Harden missed two critical three-point attempts. Despite the tense moments, the 76ers’ resilience shone through as they secured their hard-fought victory.
This victory signifies the potential for a strong season ahead for the 76ers, especially with George’s return and the prospect of a healthy Joel Embiid on the horizon. The team’s ability to execute a comeback while facing adversity is a testament to their determination and competitive spirit.