Has Paul George Lost His Passion for the Game? Kendrick Perkins Thinks So

In a startling critique that rippled across the NBA world, former champion Kendrick Perkins publicly questioned Paul George’s heart for the sport. Reflecting on the Philadelphia 76ers forward’s injury-plagued season and declining performance, Perkins didn’t mince words: “I don’t think Paul George still loves the game. I think he loves it… Let me correct that. I think he loves it. I don’t think he is in love.” PFSN

Letting that sink in—“he loves it, but isn’t in love” Perkins delivered a sobering appraisal that went beyond stats, hitting at the emotional core of a player’s identity.

A Season Cut Short: Injuries and Declining Numbers

George’s 2024–25 campaign was beset by knee and adductor injuries that limited him to just 41 games, about half the regular season. In those outings, he averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, solid output on paper, but well below his All-Star earning days. PFSN

For a player once known for explosive scoring and two-way dominance, the downturn was undeniable and visible both in the box score and, as Perkins implied, in George’s drive.

Shifting Focus: The Podcast Life

George’s interests now extend far beyond the hardwood. He co-hosts Podcast P, a show with growing popularity featuring Hollywood actor Jackie Long and former teammate Dallas Rutherford. Wikipedia

While branching out creatively isn’t inherently negative, Perkins and other critics hint that this suggests a shifting focus a signal, perhaps, that PG is more passionate about life beyond basketball.

Building Around the Future: Tyrese Maxey as the New Cornerstone?

Perkins didn’t just critique George; he called for the 76ers to pivot. He argued that Philadelphia should build around Tyrese Maxey, their rising star, instead of continuing to lean on the aging, health-fragile George. PFSN

This raises a strategic dilemma: Do you center a team’s future on reliability or star power even if that star may be waning in intensity?

The Span of George’s Legacy: From Mamba Mindset to Family Man

To understand the tension, we must rewind to George’s earlier years. Embracing basketball with fierce intensity, he embodied the “Mamba Mentality,” modeling his game and mindset after Kobe Bryant. GQ

Fast-forward to today, and his priorities appear more balanced. After signing a $212 million, four-year contract with the Sixers, George has spoken openly about valuing family over fame: “Life is bigger than basketball… Every morning I get to wake up… father of three unbelievable kids.” New York Post

It’s a revealing evolution kind as it is human.

Pressure, Boredom, and the Corporate Value Question

Plenty of observers have sensed a shift:

• Bill Simmons blasted George for expressing boredom playing center in Joel Embiid’s absence while averaging just 17.2 points per game, his lowest since 2014. Simmons labeled him one of the league’s worst trade assets given his salary and perceived lack of commitment. New York Post

• Perkins’s comment hints at the same: PG seems to have love, but the obsession the deep fire may be flickering.

Taken together, these critiques form a broader narrative: Is PG fully invested, or giving effort with one eye on the next chapter?

What’s Next for the 76ers and Paul George?

The Sixers now face a structural crossroads. Depend on George’s star power and hope for health? Or transition to a Maxey-centered era?

The league is watching closely. George will recommit, chase that ember of love, or gracefully step into a different role?

Table: Paul George Then vs Now

Final Thoughts: Is Love Enough?

Perkins’s quote contains a powerful truth: loving something isn’t the same as being in love with it. For an athlete whose game has long defined him, that distinction matters and could define the next chapter of his career.

Is this the beginning of a graceful transition toward mentorship, media, and family? Or a wake-up call for renewal?

Whatever unfolds, it’s a deeply human moment in the life of a star grappling with identity, legacy, and balance.