76ers' George hopes to be back next week

Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George is hoping to return within one week, the star told reporters Tuesday, including Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer.

George exited last week's contest against the Memphis Grizzlies after sustaining a bone bruise in his left knee. He missed the 76ers' previous two games and has already been ruled out for Wednesday's clash versus the Houston Rockets.

George will be sidelined for at least two more contests if he doesn't play over the next week.

Philadelphia's Joel Embiid and Kyle Lowry are also unavailable for Wednesday's tilt, adds Pompey.

George acknowledged how difficult it's been being unable to help his teammates as they navigate injuries to himself and Embiid.

"You look at the guys that came here for that reason of playing alongside myself, Joel, and Tyrese (Maxey). And we're asking them to do a lot in the absence of us. It's tough for me to watch that," George told reporters, according to Pompey.

"Guys are putting everything on the line. Some of them are getting banged up. So that's a challenging part from a personal point ... That's why I'm working extremely hard to try and come back.

The Sixers sit second-last in the Association with a 3-13 record.