New-look Sixers hope it's not same-old results in 2024

The big picture: Paul George, the new face on Philadelphia's squad, is inspiring hope.

• The Sixers lured George away from the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency, thinking he was the missing piece who could help 2023 league MVP Joel Embiid and the franchise overcome its playoff doldrums.

The intrigue: Fans must wait at least another week to see how George and Embiid gel on the court. They're being held out of Wednesday's game because of lingering injuries, per ESPN.

• Embiid, who suffered a torn meniscus last season, sat out of preseason to help heal his left knee quickly. He'll also miss the games Friday and Sunday, ESPN reports.
• George, who has been injury-prone, is recovering from a bone bruise that he suffered against the Hawks last week.

Zoom in: Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey told ESPN the team will closely watch their superstars' playing time this season.

• The practice, known as load management, means they're unlikely to play in back-to-back games this season.
• Embiid has dropped about 30 pounds and will wear a knee brace to guard against injuries this year.

What we're watching: Whether George and Embiid can stay healthy and help the Sixers make their first deep playoff run in decades.

If you go: Wednesday's tip-off is at 7:30pm at the Wells Fargo Center. Tickets: $13+

• The game is being broadcast on ESPN.