Last season was a whirlwind for the Philadelphia 76ers, marked by coaching changes and the addition of several players on minimum contracts. The franchise found itself navigating through a tempest as James Harden opted in only to request a trade, putting the team in a state of flux until the last day of October. Despite these challenges, the Sixers executed a series of strategic maneuvers over the summer to reshape their roster and position themselves for a promising campaign ahead.
A Tumultuous Start
The Harden saga was a significant story heading into the offseason. His departure opened up new opportunities, which the Sixers were quick to capitalize on. The team’s aggressive approach in the offseason included offering Paul George a maximum contract, although George ultimately chose to remain with the Clippers. However, the Sixers were not deterred by this setback and made significant strides in bolstering their squad.
Key Acquisitions and Retentions
Philadelphia managed to secure Tyrese Maxey on a maximum contract on the first day of free agency, signaling their commitment to building around their young talent. In addition, the Sixers re-signed Kelly Oubre Jr. using the room midlevel exception and brought on veteran guard Kyle Lowry for the minimum. These moves were complemented by acquiring Andre Drummond and Caleb Martin, who utilized most of the remaining cap space.
The front office also demonstrated shrewdness by signing Eric Gordon and Reggie Jackson to minimum deals, bringing in seasoned players who could provide valuable depth. The addition of Guerschon Yabusele further diversified the roster, ensuring there were multiple role players available to contribute. The departure of key players like Tobias Harris, De'Anthony Melton, Buddy Hield, Paul Reed, Cameron Payne, and Mo Bamba marked the end of an era, but it also paved the way for a fresh start.
Despite these changes, Robert Covington remains unsigned, and Nicolas Batum moved to the Clippers under the bi-annual exception. K.J. Martin’s decision to re-sign on a two-year, $16 million deal, with the second year non-guaranteed, was another positive note for the team's forward depth chart.
Building around Joel Embiid
The cornerstone of the franchise, Joel Embiid, solidified his future with the team by signing a contract extension. This move reaffirmed the Sixers’ commitment to building a championship-contending squad around their superstar center. The team's draft selections, Jared McCain and Adem Bona, are also expected to contribute to the rotation, providing youthful exuberance and potential.
Season Recap and Playoff Hopes
The Sixers wrapped up the last season with a 47-35 record, securing their playoff berth via a play-in game. Ranking 15th in offense and 11th in defense, the team's balanced approach allowed them to navigate through the regular season and into a first-round showdown against the Knicks. However, the promise of a deeper playoff run remains the ultimate goal.
The optimism among the fan base is palpable. As one enthusiastic supporter put it, "The Sixers have depth, they have the K.J. Martin contract and they have future picks to trade, which means they do indeed have flexibility." This sentiment underscores the belief that Philadelphia is well-positioned to make significant moves in the near future.
However, not all fans share the same optimism. "Hmm, how far did the Phoenix Suns and their Big 3 get last season?" questioned a more skeptical observer. The comparison to the Suns serves as a reminder of the uncertainties that can derail even the most promising lineups.
Yet, there are believers who hold firm in their faith in the Sixers' unique composition. "Philadelphia is not Phoenix, and this Big 3 is not that Big 3," asserted another fan. This perspective highlights the distinct qualities that differentiate the Sixers and their potential for success.
As the Sixers gear up for the new season, the blend of seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and the consistent presence of Joel Embiid offers a compelling narrative. The team's depth and flexibility will be critical as they aim to surpass last season's accomplishments and make a deeper impact in the playoffs.