Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George is set to return Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls after serving a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy. The nine-time All-Star declined to detail the specific banned substance but revealed his decision stemmed from mental health struggles linked to an offseason knee injury that limited his performance this season.

George, who signed a $212 million, four-year contract with Philadelphia in 2024, has faced multiple injuries since joining the team. His first season in Philly was marred by knee and adductor problems, resulting in just 41 games played and his lowest scoring average (16.2 points) since his second NBA season. The suspension cost him approximately $11.7 million in lost salary.

The Sixers went 13-12 without George, currently sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference standings at 39-33. George said the hiatus allowed his body to heal from nagging injuries, improving both his physical and mental state. He expressed readiness to help Philadelphia secure a solid playoff position, especially with MVP Joel Embiid and All-Star Tyrese Maxey both sidelined with injuries.