Indiana Pacers forward Paul George is nursing a sore left ankle and hasn't played since Nov. 16 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, he is expected to return soon.

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Latest on George's Playing Status

Wednesday, Nov. 23

George and Pacers head coach Nate McMillan told reporters he's probable to play against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.

Pacers Need George Healthy for Playoff Push 

An extended absence would be the worst-case scenario for the Pacers, who rely on George as a scorer and overall playmaker. Through 11 games this season, he put up a team-high 21 points per game.

The 26-year-old is a three-time All-Star who excels on both ends of the court. After missing the majority of the 2014-15 season with a devastating lower-leg injury, he bounced back a year later with the best year of his career. He finished 2015-16 with averages of 23.1 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 81 games.

Before the 2016-17 season, Bleacher Report rated George as the No. 8 player in the NBA, ahead of superstars like Chris Paul and James Harden. It's safe to say he has lived up to expectations over the course of the year.

Although Indiana has a veteran team, losing an elite player like this puts a lot of pressure on the rest of the squad to produce, which could lead to scary results.

Lavoy Allen and Glenn Robinson III should also get an increase in playing time in the frontcourt for as long as needed.