Paul George Return Timeline, Injury Update: Will the 76ers Star Play vs Lakers?

Paul George’s return timeline is in the spotlight as the Philadelphia 76ers prepare to face the Los Angeles Lakers on December 7, 2025 in Los Angeles. The veteran forward is listed as questionable, raising questions about his availability for the high profile matchup.

The 76ers completed practice earlier this week with George participating, while Joel Embiid did not take part due to lingering issues. With both stars battling injuries, the team’s depth will again be tested against a Lakers squad managing its own health concerns.

Latest Injury Update on Paul George and Joel Embiid

The 76ers entered December at 13-9 but have struggled to keep their core lineup intact. Paul George has missed multiple games due to ongoing lower body soreness, but his participation in a recent practice session signals possible progress. Team officials have listed him as questionable, meaning a final decision will likely come shortly before tipoff.

Joel Embiid’s situation remains uncertain. Embiid did not participate in the same practice, prompting concerns about whether he will be available against the Lakers. The star center has dealt with recurring issues throughout the season, similar to past years. According to multiple reports from national outlets such as AP and ESPN, Embiid’s missed practice has reduced expectations for his availability.

The team is also dealing with injuries to Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford. Both are listed as unlikely to play. This reduces Philadelphia’s wing and bench depth at a time when consistency has been difficult to maintain.

The Lakers enter the matchup with a 16-6 record but are coming off a difficult loss to the Boston Celtics. LeBron James continues to manage sciatica symptoms and is questionable. Luka Doncic is away from the team for the birth of his second child, and his return date has not been announced by the team. This creates uncertainty for Los Angeles as they attempt to rebound from their recent performance.

If George returns, Philadelphia gains a valuable two-way presence who can stabilize the offense and defend multiple positions. If both George and Embiid sit, the 76ers will rely heavily on Tyrese Maxey and supporting pieces to keep the game competitive.

What the Matchup Means for Both Teams

The outcome may shift depending on which stars take the floor. Philadelphia’s inconsistency this season has been tied directly to player availability. A return by Paul George would help reestablish the lineup the franchise envisioned when it made its offseason roster moves.

For Los Angeles, the game provides a chance to regain rhythm after a blowout loss. The absence of James or Doncic would complicate that effort, though the Lakers have shown strong defensive stretches even short handed.

The final injury confirmations will determine whether this game becomes a duel between elite veterans or a battle of depleted rotations. Paul George’s return timeline remains the key storyline as tipoff approaches.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Paul George’s latest injury update?

Paul George is listed as questionable after practicing this week. A final decision will come before tipoff.

Q2: What is Paul George’s return timeline?

George is moving closer to a return. His practice participation indicates progress, but the team has not confirmed a full clearance.

Q3: Will Joel Embiid play against the Lakers?

Embiid missed the latest practice session. His status is uncertain and trending toward a possible absence.

Q4: What is the Lakers injury situation?

LeBron James is questionable with sciatica. Luka Doncic is away from the team for personal reasons.

Q5: Can the 76ers win without George and Embiid?

The 76ers will rely heavily on Tyrese Maxey if both stars sit. The chances improve if the Lakers are also short handed.