The Evolving Sixers: Can Paul George’s Shot Profile Unlock Championship Contention?
The Philadelphia 76ers are navigating a precarious path. After 52 weeks of fluctuating performance in 2025, the team’s trajectory feels less certain than ever. While the weekly “5 Sixers Thoughts” column has consistently dissected the team’s progress, a critical question looms: can Paul George, in his second season with the Sixers, evolve his scoring profile to become the consistent second star they desperately need? The answer may well define their championship aspirations.
The Problem with PG’s Shot Diet
Paul George’s scoring efficiency, particularly inside the arc, remains a significant concern. Currently shooting just 40.0% on two-point attempts, it’s a stark contrast to his peak years. This isn’t a matter of diminished overall ability – George has demonstrably improved as an all-around player since arriving in Philadelphia – but a troubling pattern of shot selection. The Sixers need a reliable self-creator, and George’s struggles in this area are becoming increasingly apparent.
Last season, the data painted a clear picture: George was eschewing drives to the basket, opting instead for a higher volume of mid-range jumpers. This shift, coupled with a decline in rim frequency, made him predictable and easier to defend. The question now is whether his recent dip in two-point shooting is a temporary blip or a sign that those old habits are resurfacing.
A Statistical Deep Dive: George’s Evolution (and Regression?)
Analyzing George’s shot profile reveals a striking similarity between his current struggles and those of his first season in Philadelphia. The percentage of his field goal attempts taken between 10 and 16 feet remains stubbornly high, mirroring last year’s trend. However, there’s a glimmer of hope: his free throw attempts are up, suggesting a renewed willingness to attack the basket and draw contact. Let’s examine the numbers:
| Category | George with Thunder (2017-2019) | George with Clippers (2019-2024) | George’s first season with Sixers (2024-25) | George’s second season with Sixers (2025-26) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average shot distance (ft.) | 16.3 | 16.9 | 18.0 | 18.3 |
| % of FGA between 0-3 ft. | .204 | .150 | .105 | .101 |
| % of FGA between 3-10 ft. | .094 | .132 | .125 | .078 |
| % of FGA between 10-16 ft. | .110 | .126 | .140 | .184 |
| % of FGA between 16 ft.-3P | .129 | .143 | .160 | .140 |
| % of FGA from 3P | .462 | .448 | .470 | .497 |
stats via basketball-reference
The key takeaway? George needs to rediscover the explosiveness that allowed him to consistently attack the rim during his Oklahoma City days. Teams are comfortable conceding mid-range shots, and George’s reliance on them is hindering the Sixers’ offensive flow. Improving his ability to create separation and finish around the basket is paramount.
Beyond George: Bona’s Emergence and Two-Way Strategy
While George’s scoring profile is a central concern, other developments are shaping the Sixers’ future. The rise of rookie Adem Bona as Joel Embiid’s primary backup is a welcome surprise. Bona’s energy, athleticism, and defensive prowess have injected a much-needed spark into the second unit. His performance against Oklahoma City – 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks – showcased his potential. This is a stark contrast to the inconsistent play of Andre Drummond, whose knee issues may be limiting his effectiveness.
The Sixers’ handling of their two-way contracts is also noteworthy. The waiver of Hunter Sallis and the subsequent signing of MarJon Beauchamp demonstrate a strategic focus on developing players with long-term potential. The clock is ticking on converting Dominick Barlow or Jabari Walker to standard contracts by January 26th, adding another layer of complexity to the roster management puzzle. Understanding the nuances of two-way contracts is crucial for teams navigating the modern NBA landscape.
The Drummond-Barlow Conundrum
Despite their individual strengths, the pairing of Andre Drummond and Dominick Barlow has yielded surprisingly poor results. With a dismal Offensive Rating of just 96.8, it’s the least efficient two-player combination on the Sixers roster. While their chemistry on cuts and short rolls is evident, Barlow’s limited three-point shooting and Drummond’s offensive limitations create spacing issues that opponents readily exploit. Finding a more complementary frontcourt pairing when Embiid is sidelined will be critical.
Looking Ahead: A Pivotal Stretch for the Sixers
The Sixers face a challenging stretch of games ahead. The success of their season hinges on Paul George’s ability to adapt his scoring profile, Adem Bona’s continued development, and smart roster management. The team’s ability to address these issues will determine whether they can contend for a championship or settle for mediocrity. The next few months will be a crucial test of their resilience and strategic acumen. What adjustments will Nick Nurse make to unlock the Sixers’ full potential?
What are your predictions for the Sixers’ playoff chances? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
