5 Most untouchable 76ers players in trade talks in the 2024-25 season

3. Paul George is too perfect of a third fiddle for the 76ers to part ways quickly

After a year-long escapade of tricky financial gymnastics and pondering on a long list of rumored names, Philadelphia finally zeroed in on a third star and signed Paul George to a four-year, max contract this offseason, firmly cementing them among the pool of bona fide championship contenders.

While there are valid inhibitions as regards the 76ers’ unyielding manner in handing him an injury-prone a max deal at 34, George is way too perfect as a third fiddle next to Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. His skill set is not as unique as it once was, with many players already fitting his mold, but few players tout the level of skill he has on a high-usage context on both ends of the floor.

Last season, George turned in a clean bill of health and surprisingly only missed seven games. In turn, he registered career-high marks in all shooting categories, and with defenses now having to swarm his co-stars, his numbers could look even better for the 76ers in 2024-25.