Philadelphia 76ers Season Preview
Re-signed: Kyle Lowry, KJ Martin, Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr.
Additions: Andre Drummond (free agent), Paul George (free agent), Eric Gordon (free agent), Reggie Jackson (free agent), Caleb Martin (free agent), Guerschon Yabusele (free agent)
Draft Picks: Jared McCain (No. 16 overall), Adem Bona (No. 41)
Departures: Nicolas Batum (to Clippers), Mo Bamba (to Clippers), Buddy Hield (to Warriors), De’Anthony Melton (to Warriors), Cameron Payne (to Knicks), Paul Reed (to Pistons)
Unsigned Free Agents: Robert Covington, Terquavion Smith
Last Season Recap
The 2023-24 Philadelphia 76ers looked dominant early in the season until Joel Embiid was sidelined for two months due to a meniscus injury. Despite this setback, the Sixers managed to win 47 games, but the absence of their MVP forced them into the SoFi Play-In Tournament. Embiid returned in time for the playoffs, where Tyrese Maxey (25.9 points per game) emerged as an All-Star, showing tremendous growth and earning Most Improved Player honors. However, the Sixers fell short, lacking the depth to make a deep playoff run and losing in the first round.
Nick Nurse’s coaching helped the team stay competitive despite the injuries, but by season’s end, it was clear they needed more firepower. With significant cap space available in the offseason, Philadelphia looked ahead to adding a third star to complement Embiid and Maxey.
Summer Summary
General manager Daryl Morey seized the opportunity to improve the roster with the signing of Paul George, who joined the Sixers in a surprise move after parting ways with the Clippers. Morey’s patience paid off, as the addition of George gives the Sixers a legitimate third star without having to sacrifice Maxey’s future contract extension.
Adding Andre Drummond to bolster the frontcourt and Caleb Martin for wing depth further strengthened a roster already built around stars. The Sixers also brought in veteran contributors like Eric Gordon and Reggie Jackson, giving them a mix of youth and experience that positions them well for a deep playoff run. These moves kept Philadelphia among the top contenders in the East.
Player Spotlight: Paul George
At 34, Paul George arrives in Philadelphia with less pressure to be the top star, thanks to Embiid and Maxey. George can focus on providing two-way play and perimeter defense without carrying the burden of turning the franchise around, as he did in previous stops with the Pacers, Thunder, and Clippers. With George healthy and fully integrated, the Sixers have a dynamic trio capable of competing with the best teams in the league.
Season Outlook
The 76ers enter the 2024-25 season as one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference, alongside the Celtics and Knicks. With Joel Embiid as the reigning MVP, Tyrese Maxey emerging as a star, and the addition of Paul George, Philadelphia has one of the most talented rosters in the league.
Their ability to reach the NBA Finals will depend largely on health, particularly for Embiid and George, but the Sixers now have the depth and star power to challenge for a championship. The pieces are in place, and with Coach Nurse at the helm, Philadelphia could be ready for a serious title run as soon as this season.
