You'll have a hard time finding a Philadelphia 76ers fan who will miss the Paul George era. After the Sixers struck a shocking trade with the Boston Celtics not only to get off George's contract but also to land Jaylen Brown in return, the move was a massive hit with Sixers fans and one that hurts Celtics fans.
Joel Embiid feels the excitement in Philadelphia and looks forward to getting to work with the ex-Celtics player after going to battle against him for many years. On the other side of it, though, there is an emotional aspect for Embiid in seeing his former teammate leave for a division rival.
Deeper than the game
Behind the scenes, Embiid and George were closer than anybody knew. When George arrived in Philadelphia for the first time, he revealed that he had built up a strong connection with Embiid when they linked up for NBA All-Star Games. The star center was obviously key in recruiting George to come to Philadelphia in the first place.
They shared the court together when healthy. Lived near each other and had kids close in age, and they developed a friendship as well. For George and Embiid, it's deeper than the game. Unfortunately for their situation, the game is the game.
Trades happen, and Embiid has been down this road plenty of times. While he doesn't cut ties with his ex-teammates on the highest of notes all of the time, the star center clearly feels differently about losing George after his second season with the 76ers. "I was sad to see PG go," he said. "Obviously, we built the relationship, and I was happy when he came here. We couldn't accomplish what we set out to do."
It's all for the best
Paul George admitted that he wished he had been with the Celtics sooner, a strong indication that he won't exactly miss his time playing for the 76ers. Really, who can blame him? The plan flopped, which led the Sixers to take some major swings this offseason.
Personally, George regressed to pre-All-Star levels. When he won the Most Improved Player award in 2012-2013, the former Indiana Pacers sharpshooter was averaging 17.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. From then on, he became a nine-time All-Star, typically averaging over 20 points, six rebounds, and four assists. His best season in Philly included averages of 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 37 games.
The 76ers aren't guaranteed to accomplish their goals now that they've replaced George with Brown and added LeBron James to the lineup. At least they aren't going to run the same core back, after coming up way short of expectations for a third year in a row.
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