In the latest episode of “Podcast P with Paul George”, the veteran NBA forward expressed his disbelief and irritation over the recent leak of a Philadelphia 76ers team meeting. George shared his frustrations regarding how an internal discussion aimed at addressing the team’s challenges made its way into the public eye, turning into a media frenzy.
The contentious meeting followed a disappointing 106-89 loss to the Miami Heat, during which the 76ers squandered a 19-point lead. Reports suggest that Tyrese Maxey seized the opportunity to admonish Joel Embiid for tardiness, which the rookie guard interpreted as a sign of leadership.
George remarked, “I don’t know how the f**k Shams got that story or how that even leaked. The whole meeting, that’s normal in the NBA. Teams go through that. I’ve been on multiple teams where we’ll at some point have a meeting and a check-in if things aren’t going right.”
He continued, “It was positive conversation. It was healthy conversations. We’re a team that cares, a team that naturally cares about what’s going on with their team. They’re going to have sit downs. They’re going to discuss how can we get back on track.”
Nevertheless, the leak prompted responses from Embiid, Maxey, and head coach Nick Nurse. Maxey downplayed the situation, describing the meeting as “positive” and expressing his desire to step up as a leader. On the other hand, Embiid reacted more angrily, reportedly enraged by the breach of trust and referring to the person responsible for the leak as a “piece of s***.”
Paul George Is Having A Mediocre Season With Philadelphia 76ers
With a roster that includes Embiid, the former MVP, the rising star Maxey, and the seasoned George, among others, the Sixers began the season with championship aspirations. However, injuries have severely impacted their lineup. Currently, George has played only eight games due to injury, with Maxey having also played eight and Embiid just four.
While injuries are a contributing factor to the team’s lackluster start, there are rising concerns regarding their ability to meet even modest expectations. George’s frustration over the leak underscores deeper issues the 76ers face in terms of execution, focus, and trust.
For the 76ers to turn around what has so far been a disappointing season, they need to regain their health and rebuild their internal cohesion as they progress through the season.
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