Paul George Will Forfeit $11.7 Million During His 25-Game Suspension

By Joey Held on February 2, 2026 in Articles › Sports News

Paul George has been a key part of the Philadelphia 76ers' resurgence this season. When healthy, the veteran forward, alongside center Joel Embiid and guards Tyrese Maxey and V.J. Edgecombe, has helped Philadelphia compete for a playoff spot a season after the 76ers finished with one of the worst records in the NBA.

However, the Sixers will have to wrap up much of the regular season without George. The NBA suspended him for 25 games without pay after he violated the league's anti-drug policy by taking an "improper medication." George's first potential game back is on March 25, when there are only ten games left on Philadelphia's schedule.

George is making $51.7 in salary this season. Since the suspension is without pay, he will forfeit nearly $469,692 per game, or about $11.7 million over the length of the suspension.

Nic Antaya/Getty Images

George sent a statement to ESPN's Shams Charania to explain the situation:

"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."

George's statement also said he'd use the time off to focus on his mind and body.

The Sixers will miss George's presence on the court. Averages of 16 points and 5 rebounds while shooting 38.2% on 6.4 three-point attempts per game are tough to replace. But the team might appreciate the financial relief the suspension offers.

Philadelphia is over the luxury tax line, and the team will save over $5 million in luxury tax payments while George is out. Of course, it's billionaires writing these checks, but every little bit helps.

In the meantime, George will have to watch his team play from the sideline. On the plus side, there's more free time to start up his Podcast P show once again.