Nick Nurse and the Philadelphia 76ers proved they were willing to lift the cap on Paul George’s minutes restriction slightly if they had a chance to win. In the nine-time All-Star’s first game against the Phoenix Suns, George checked in for just over 30 minutes. It was more playing time than expected.

Over the next two games, the Sixers took the star wing out for just over 20 minutes in each outing. After Friday’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, George noted it might take a few more games before he lets off the leash.

The All-Star’s home debut Sunday night was a close battle against the Charlotte Hornets. Once again, George went over 30 minutes of play. Even though it looked like Nick Nurse was ready to push some limits, he didn’t risk playing the veteran in overtime in his home debut .

After the match, Nurse confirmed that the restriction was the reason.

George accepted the decision, but he certainly wasn’t happy about it.

“I mean, completely frustrated,” George said of his overtime absence.

“I was completely frustrated, you know, with the way that game was going. I wanted to be there for the guys with that commitment to try to win a game, especially when you’re at home and you’re on the right side.

Any contender in George’s position would feel the same way, especially considering the Sixers’ current place in the Eastern Conference standings.

With just one win in eight games, Philly was desperate to get one without Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Given the contract George signed in the offseason, everyone understands the expectations that come with it.

George produced 15 points, nine assists and three total rebounds in 33 minutes of action. Watching the game from the sidelines, George felt good to see his teammates take care of business with a 10-8 run in overtime.

“Luckily my guys had me,” George said after the game. “Luckily Jared McCain is already in his fifth year, but it was a great group effort.”

Coming off the bench for 30 minutes, Sixers rookie Jared McCain had 27 points to lead the Sixers past the Hornets. Even though George was unable to contribute beyond the fourth quarter, the Sixers received a big boost from McCain by beating the Hornets 107-105, to earn their second victory of the year.