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<h1>Power Forward Dilemma for the Philadelphia 76ers</h1>
<p>The Philadelphia 76ers are grappling with a key issue as they approach the 2024-25 season: identifying a suitable power forward. The exit of Nico Batum has created a significant vacancy in an otherwise star-studded lineup. Paul George leans towards playing shooting guard rather than shifting to power forward, while double big lineups with Joel Embiid have proven ineffective. Although Caleb Martin has some experience at the four from his time with Miami, asking the 6-foot-5 forward to fill that role for an entire season may be unrealistic. The Sixers faced multiple challenges, but the lack of a power forward was the most glaring concerning roster construction.</p>
<p>In modern basketball, an ideal power forward can effectively fill various gaps in a team's lineup. If playmaking is weak among the guards, the power forward can step up to facilitate ball movement and create plays. A center struggling in the short roll could be moved to the dunking spot, allowing the four to run screens. Similarly, size to defend against the opposing team's key scorer is often filled by a power forward.</p>
<p>Last season, the Sixers encountered more gaps than expected, and the need for a versatile power forward became increasingly apparent as the season progressed.</p>
<p>Despite not using their third overall pick to address the power forward position and lacking substantial trade acquisitions, the Sixers may have devised a workable solution: a committee approach. In July, they signed Trendon Watford, Jabari Walker, and Dominick Barlow—each fitting the power forward profile—and selected Johni Broome with the 35th overall pick, who plays a hybrid role between power forward and center.</p>
<p>None of these players were high-profile acquisitions. Watford secured a two-year, $5.3 million contract, while Walker and Barlow are on two-way deals, and Broome was a second-round draft pick. With limited financial flexibility, the Sixers opted for budget-friendly players, hoping one can evolve into their ideal power forward by the 2026 season.</p>
<p>Watford is expected to lead the competition for the starting role due to his experience, having played 217 NBA games over four seasons. Though not an elite athlete and known for defensive struggles, his offensive skill set is commendable for a budget player, showcasing effective scoring techniques such as floaters and self-creation potential.</p>
<p>While Walker and Barlow offer different strengths—Walker brings energy and defensive versatility, and Barlow has shown flashes of playmaking ability—neither stand out as a definitive solution. Broome's performance in the Summer League has been mixed, but his potential remains intact. Ultimately, the Sixers have assembled a low-cost, low-risk group to tackle their pressing need for a power forward, marking a strategic improvement over the previous season's approach.</p>
<p><em>Daniel Olinger is a writer for the Rights To Ricky Sanchez, contributing the “Danny” column, though he prefers not to be referred to by that name in person. Follow him on X <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/dan_olinger" rel="">@dan_olinger</a>.</em></p>
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