Philadelphia 76ers
Philly fans were asked to “trust the process” by former Sixers GM Sam Hinkie during the early stages of their rebuild. Ten years later, reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid is the last draft pick from Hinkie’s rebuild on the roster. The “process” may be coming to an end in Philadelphia.
James Harden opted into his $35.6 million player option for 2023-24 and then requested a trade. He’s still a Sixer a month later. Who knows how motivated he will be if he isn’t traded to his preferred team – the LA Clippers. Either way, Harden’s days in Philly appear to be numbered.
Tobias Harris is also a free agent after the 2023-24 season. In fact, Philadelphia has 10 players on its roster that could potentially be free agents after this season. Tyrese Maxey is up for a contract extension, but his future is also uncertain.
This Philadelphia 76ers will get one more shot at a title run. If President Darryl Morey doesn’t reload the roster Embiid could be the next NBA superstar to demand a trade. Sixers fans could be looking at another long rebuild in Philadelphia.