Paul George (Image Source: Getty Images)

In his most recent “Podcast P with Paul George” episode, Paul George voiced his shock and annoyance at the recent leak of a Philadelphia 76ers team meeting. The seasoned forward spoke up about how the internal debate, meant to solve the team’s problems, became widely known and became a media circus.

Following a disappointing 106-89 defeat to the Miami Heat, in which the 76ers lost a 19-point lead, the meeting in issue took place. However, Tyrese Maxey reportedly took use of the occasion to reprimand Joel Embiid for being late for team events, which the rookie guard perceived as a leadership gesture.

George addressed, “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 added, “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, Embiid, Maxey, and even head coach Nick Nurse were compelled to speak out about the matter. Maxey played down the drama by describing the meeting as “positive” and highlighting his intention to take the lead. However, Embiid was less understanding and allegedly became enraged about the betrayal, calling the leaker a “piece of s***.”

Paul George Is Having A Mediocre Season With Philadelphia 76ers

With a lineup featuring Embiid, the previous MVP, emerging sensation Maxey, seasoned veteran George, and a potent supporting cast, the Sixers came into the season hoping to win a title. Injuries have severely hampered their lineup. Moreover, now out again due to an injury, George has only played eight games, Maxey has played eight, and Embiid has only played four.

Although the injuries can partially explain the team’s dismal start, there are concerns about their failure to live up to even modest expectations. George’s annoyance with the leak highlights the Sixers’ larger problems with execution, attention, and trust.

If the 76ers want to salvage what has been a horrible season so far, they will need to recover physically and reestablish their internal unity as the season goes on.