The 76ers’ High-Risk, High-Reward Offseason
After a disappointing playoff exit at the hands of the New York Knicks, the Philadelphia 76ers entered the offseason with a clear goal: build a championship contender around Joel Embiid. With only two players under contract, the team embarked on an aggressive rebuilding effort that has transformed their roster and sparked hopes of a title run.
The Big Moves
The 76ers made waves in free agency by signing Paul George to a four-year max deal, making him the first current All-Star to change teams in five years. They also inked Tyrese Maxey to a five-year extension and brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry. The team added depth with the signings of Caleb Martin, Eric Gordon, and Andre Drummond, who was persuaded to return to Philadelphia by Embiid himself.
Embiid’s Evolution
Embiid, the 2023 MVP, is entering his eighth season in the league, but injuries have limited him to just 433 games out of a possible 637. To combat this, Embiid has been working on his body, losing 25-30 pounds in the offseason, and plans to avoid playing back-to-backs for the rest of his career. He will also continue to wear a brace on his left knee, which he injured in January.
The Supporting Cast
The 76ers have built a strong supporting cast around Embiid, with George, Maxey, and Martin forming a talented trio. The team also boasts a deep bench, with veterans like Gordon and Lowry providing valuable experience. Drummond, who was brought back to provide depth at center, will help alleviate some of the pressure on Embiid.
Eastern Conference Competition
The 76ers face stiff competition in the Eastern Conference, with the defending champion Boston Celtics returning their entire rotation. The Knicks, Bucks, Heat, and Pacers all pose threats, but the 76ers are confident in their ability to compete. With their new roster, they believe they can stick to their plan to monitor minutes for Embiid and George, preserving their health for later.
A Different Story
After repeated postseason disappointments, the 76ers are hopeful this season will see them tell a different story. With a core under contract for the next several years, the team is optimistic about their chances. As Maxey put it, “The names on the sheet look really good, but this isn’t 2K. It’s not fantasy basketball. It’s real life.”
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