Sometimes a plan works perfectly — but for the Sixers, that’s rarely the case. Their signing of Paul George last year quickly proved to be another move that went sideways.

After a strong final season with the Clippers, George arrived in Philly on a four-year, $212 million max deal. But instead of elevating the team, he delivered one of the worst years of his career: only 41 games played and steep drops in scoring and efficiency.

Now recovering from summer knee surgery, George is close to returning. In theory, adding a nine-time All-Star should help. But the Sixers have surprisingly flourished without him. Despite Embiid’s limited minutes and George’s absence, the team has started 7–4 behind Tyrese Maxey and a group of energetic young wings. The offense is clicking, the vibes are good, and rookies and role players have stepped up.

That’s why George’s return brings questions. Last season, the Embiid-Maxey-George trio wasn’t effective. This year the offense flows through Maxey, with Embiid contributing when he can rather than dominating possessions. Forcing George into a major role could disrupt the balance that’s working.

There’s also the issue of size and rotations. George’s presence could push Trendon Watford — who has shown promise — back to the bench. And given George’s age (36 in May), injuries, and enormous contract (including a $56.5 million player option in 2027-28), the Sixers can’t expect him to be a long-term cornerstone.

If the Sixers ease him in, use him as a complementary piece, and avoid inflating his role just to justify his salary, his return could help. But overusing him risks upsetting a team that has finally found stability — something rare in Philadelphia.