Insights into the 76ers’ Future
A former NBA All-Star and champion has candidly shared his views on the Philadelphia 76ers’ potential as the 2025-26 season approaches.
Significant Player Acquisitions
Last summer, Philadelphia’s general manager Daryl Morey made headlines by acquiring nine-time All-Star forward Paul George, signing him to a maximum contract worth $211.6 million over four years. Additional signings included former Miami Heat wing Caleb Martin, sharpshooter Buddy Hield, center Andre Drummond, wing KJ Martin, point guard Reggie Jackson, power forward Guerschon Yabusele, and combo guard Eric Gordon.
Key Contract Extensions
Morey also secured long-term commitments from seven-time All-Star center Joel Embiid with a three-year, $187.7 million contract extension, and All-Star point guard Tyrese Maxey, signing him for five years at $204.9 million. This solidified a potential “Big Three” alongside George. The general manager also re-signed Kelly Oubre Jr. and point guard Kyle Lowry.
Expectations vs. Reality
With these moves, the team appeared primed for a deep playoff run and a chance at their first Eastern Conference Finals since drafting Embiid. However, injuries and chemistry issues derailed their season, leading to a disappointing 24-58 record that saw them missing the playoffs entirely.
Offseason Changes and Future Prospects
In reaction to the failures, Morey made several trades, including sending Martin to the Dallas Mavericks for guard Quentin Grimes and a future second-round pick, and trading Jackson to the Washington Wizards. The team’s luck seemed to turn around when they selected V.J. Edgecombe, a former Baylor Bears guard, with the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Grimes, now a restricted free agent, has also shown promise.
Teague’s Take on the Team’s Ceiling
On his “Club 520” podcast, Jeff Teague shared his honest assessment of the team’s true potential. When asked if the 76ers could compete for a title at full strength, Teague dismissed the notion, labeling the roster as one suited for a play-in tournament. He expressed skepticism about Paul George’s health, suggesting that the star player might struggle to remain fit throughout the season.
Embiid’s Injury Concerns
Teague noted that while George has faced health challenges, Joel Embiid is even more injury-prone. He humorously predicted that Embiid would have a few strong games before injury sidelined him again. The 2023 MVP has had severe health issues, playing just 58 total games over the past two seasons, and has recently undergone surgeries on his knee.
Grimes, having shown strong performance with the 76ers last season, is set for an even bigger role. Teague quipped that he could be averaging 18 points next year as he adjusts to a more crowded backcourt.
For the latest NBA updates, visit Newsweek Sports.
