Philadelphia 76ers: 3 reasons why it will be the last playoff run for this core

Reason No. 3: The path to improvement could prove to be difficult with James Harden and Joel Embiid

If James Harden remains on the roster beyond this season, the likelihood is that they’ll have to re-sign into a long-term deal. Quite frankly, I’m not sure that is something the Sixers should do, but it’s not my decision or my money.

However, if Harden does move on from the Sixers this offseason, I’m not sure there’s an easy and clear path for the Sixers to simply replace him while continuing to be a contender in the Eastern Conference.

Sure, they would have some salary cap space especially if they are also able to move off of Tobias Harris‘s contract, but I’m really not sure who Philly could target in an attempt to appease Joel Embiid.

Let’s remember, not only will the Sixers have to figure out how to continue to build around Embiid, but this is an offseason in which they likely also have to convince him to believe in the retooling of the roster once again.

That could prove to be the Sixers’ tallest task, especially if they falter early on in the playoffs again.