NBA: 3 Eastern Conference teams that will regress in 2021-22

3 East teams that could regress in 2021-22: Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers were the top seed in the Eastern Conferene entering the playoffs last season. As crazy as it sounds, especially after a disappointing loss in the second round of the playoffs, it’s easy to forget that.

Though, there’s a good chance that the Sixers won’t be able to replicate that same success this season. Especially if they are forced to trade Ben Simmons. And for the look of it now, that appears to be the case.

The trade market for Simmons is reportedly less than appetizing for the Sixers and if that is indeed the case, it would be hard to envision this team getting better with any deal they are able to agree to.

Unless they are able to hit a home run in a trade for Simmons, I don’t believe the Sixers will be a top 2 seed in the Eastern Conferene this season. And I don’t really think that’s a hot take by any means.