The NBA is once again cracking down on teams suspected of shutting down their star players for the season. Recently, the Utah Jazz faced a $100,000 fine for keeping Lauri Markkanen out of action, and now, the Philadelphia 76ers are under the league’s microscope. Reports suggest that the NBA has launched an investigation into the Sixers regarding the absence of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George.
NBA insider Shams Charania recently discussed the situation on The Pat McAfee Show. Charania confirmed the league’s inquiry into Philadelphia’s handling of player availability.
“I’m told the Philadelphia 76ers are another team the NBA has started an investigation on and looked into. Just based on, you’ve had Tyrese Maxey miss time, we know Paul George has missed time,” Charania said.
The NBA has launched an investigation into the Sixers about Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George missing games, per @ShamsCharania. pic.twitter.com/S0tUIpRIjV
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 14, 2025
The Sixers’ struggles without their stars have fueled speculation that the franchise is positioning itself to secure its top-six protected draft pick. Currently sitting at a disappointing 22-44 record, Philadelphia has lost three straight games. With Embiid, Maxey, and George all sidelined, their path to securing lottery odds seems increasingly clear.
Paul George has missed the last five games and has appeared in only 41 contests this season. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid, who has been dealing with knee issues, has only played 19 games before being ruled out for the season. Tyrese Maxey, the lone member of the trio with a relatively high game count, has been out for six consecutive games due to a lower back and finger sprain but has played 52 games overall.
Nick Nurse Shares Update On Tyrese Maxey’s Injury
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Following the 76ers’ 112-100 loss to the Indiana Pacers, head coach Nick Nurse provided a promising update on Tyrese Maxey’s status. The head coach suggested that Maxey’s return is approaching.
“He should get into this trip at some point. I don’t think he’ll make the next one, but maybe after that, we can see where he’s at,” Nurse said.
Maxey has not played since March 3, when the Sixers faced the Portland Trail Blazers. Before his injury, he averaged 26.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game.
Also Read: REPORT: Philadelphia 76ers Are Officially Done With Paul George
