Paul George was suspended 25 games without pay for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy, the league announced Saturday.

In a statement to ESPN’s Shams Charania, George said, “Over the past few years, I’ve discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision-making during this process.

“I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return.”

George’s suspension began with Saturday night’s game in Philadelphia against the New Orleans Pelicans. When he is eligible to return — March 25 at home against the Chicago Bulls — the 76ers will have 10 regular-season games remaining.

The suspension will cost George roughly $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary, or about $469,691.72 for each of the 25 games missed.

Before Saturday’s game, Sixers coach Nick Nurse declined to discuss details of his conversation with George after the suspension was announced. Nurse said he hadn’t noticed personal issues with George.

“I think he’s been fine,” Nurse said. “Really fun to coach. Really good teammate. His teammates really like him. Showing some great leadership.”

George, 35, is averaging 16 points while shooting 38.2% from 3-point range in 27 games this season. He has been part of a resurgent Philadelphia squad that has bounced back from last season’s injury-filled campaign to sit in sixth place in the Eastern Conference.

George, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey have been on the court together for 365 minutes in 17 games this season, outscoring opponents by over seven points per 100 possessions.

ESPN’s Bobby Marks reports that Philadelphia will save more than $5 million in luxury tax payments as part of George’s suspension, leaving the team a little over $1 million over the threshold and making it easier for the 76ers to dip out of the tax this week without harming the roster.

After Saturday’s 124-114 win over the Pelicans, Embiid told reporters it would be “impossible” to replace George as the Sixers prepare to make a playoff push without one of their key starters.

“I know people have mixed feelings about what he brings to the table,” Embiid said. “You can’t replace it. (He) does everything for us. Defensively, probably our best perimeter defender. Offensively, can play so many roles. Knock down shots. Post up. Creation. Playmaking.”

The 76ers (26-21) are 16-11 when George plays and 10-10 when he does not this season.

“As with all our players, dealing with this kind of stuff, you care about them,” Nurse said. “We’re to help him. The organization is in any way possible. And try to get past it as soon as we can, get through it the best way we can, and then go from there.”

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.