Do the Sixers Have Enough for a Deep Playoff Run?

NBA

Daryl Morey does not get enough respect for his vision. Coming into the 2024-25 season, he made offseason moves that hyped up Sixers fans. His moves consisted of bringing in a 15-year veteran in Paul George. He also brought in Eric Gordon, Andre Drummond, and Guerschon Yabusele; drafted Jared McCain with the 16th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and Adem Bona with the 41st pick; and signed undrafted prospect Justin Edwards to a two-way deal. These moves had fans eager to watch a deep playoff run for the Sixers. However, that vision turned out to be akin to a pipe dream. As the franchise was dealt with an injury bug. To salvage the season, Morey traded for two young guards in Quentin Grimes via Dallas and Jared Butler via Washington. This injury bug caused the franchise to have 54 different starting lineups, an NBA record since it was first tracked in 1984.

The 2024-25 season can be considered forgettable for fans affected by this disaster. Although there were some gems shown in the season, it wasn’t enough for a deep playoff run. However, the emergence of talent from Edwards, Bona, and Grimes has made them indispensable pieces. Especially for Grimes in the backcourt, when guys like Tyrese Maxey, McCain, and Kyle Lowry were out with injuries. Now, since Grimes' return to the Sixers is all but confirmed, and Morey securing Maxey’s longtime friend in Trendon Watford, here’s my proposed depth chart for the 2025-26 season. Also, following head coach Nick Nurse’s tendencies:

PG: Maxey, McCain, Lowry

SG: Grimes, Gordon, VJ Edgecombe

SF: George, Kelly Oubre Jr, Ricky Council IV

PF: Watford, Edwards, Johni Broome

C: Joel Embiid, Drummond, Bona

Two-Way Contracts: Hunter Sallis, Jabari Walker, Dominick Barlow

Guys like Sallis, Walker, and Barlow, who are on two-way deals, fill in the space for the guard and forward positions. Now, with this proposed depth chart, the Sixers have a chance to make a deep run in the playoffs. Especially with the big three in Embiid, George, and Maxey coming back healthier, leading the way. Although the big three only played in 15 games together, they were able to amass 922 points, while going 44.6% from the field in that span. This season could be a major tune-in for Philly fans as they await a deep playoff run.

Daveigh Villanueva

I'm an upcoming sports writer from Camden, NJ. I am keen on grabbing statistical numbers that would impress you. I don't just bring news, but historical accolades that would make you appreciate each player.

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