The NBA world was caught off guard after the league decided to suspend Paul George for 25 games after he was found in violation of the NBA’s anti-drug policy. NBA analyst Shams Charania shared the update on social media. While the league did not announce the substance used or the nature of the violation, fans were quick to analyse and speculate on the possible drug, as per the 76ers forward’s statement.
The nine-time All-Star shared a statement after the news was made public on X. He said:
“Over the past few years, I’ve discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision making during this process.”
Just In: The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers’ Paul George…
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The statement led fans on Reddit to speculate on the drug behind the violation, as one wrote:
“Lol his statement release suggested he took Adderall for his mental health.”
Another fan opined:
“Ketamine for depression and anxiety”
In reply to the above comment, another said:
“Or Xanax.”
Another one said:
“I’d guess either Ketamine or some other hallucinogenic”
Whatever the drug might be, the Philadelphia 76ers’ season will surely be impacted by this. PG is an integral part of the team’s starting lineup and a trustworthy perimeter shooter. While the team was looking to offload a few contracts to get within the luxury cap limit, the front office might now have to put those plans aside.
Paul George will lose about $11.7 million from his $51.7 million salary this season. He is expected to return to the court on March 25 in Philadelphia against the Chicago Bulls. In his statement, he said that he will use the time to focus on his mental and physical health, which might be needed, considering his numbers this season.
George is averaging the lowest points (16) over his last 10 seasons in the NBA. However, in the 76ers’ win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Jan. 27, he looked a little like his previous self, scoring 32 points, in which he drained nine 3-pointers.
READ MORE: Why Paul George Was Suspended? Trouble Deepens for 76ers Star Over Drug Policy Violation Explained
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