Day 10: Philadelphia 76ers – A Season of Frustration & Uncertainty
The 76ers finished the 2024–25 season with a 24–58 record, placing 13th in the Eastern Conference and missing the playoffs entirely - their worst campaign in recent memory.
Team Identity & Coaching
Under head coach Nick Nurse, the Sixers struggled to find cohesion without their stars. The offense ranked 22nd in efficiency, and the defense finished 26th, giving them a bottom-five net rating league-wide.
Key Players & Injuries
- Joel Embiid: Limited to just 19 games due to a knee injury that eventually required season-ending surgery. He averaged 23.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, and 4.5 APG.
- Tyrese Maxey: Stepped up in Embiid’s absence, averaging 26.3 PPG and 6.1 APG before being sidelined late in the year with a finger injury.
- Paul George: Signed to a max deal last offseason but played just 41 games due to lingering knee and adductor issues, contributing 16.2 PPG.
Season Results
The Sixers never found their footing. Injuries, inconsistent lineups, and limited bench production doomed the team to a sub-25 win total. They finished with just one win in their final 10 games.
Our Analysis
The team lacked scoring balance, perimeter defense, and durability. Front office missteps - including questionable depth signings - only magnified those problems.
Recent Trades & Roster Moves
- Acquired Caleb Martin from Dallas in exchange for Quentin Grimes and a second-round pick.
- Received Jared Butler from Washington, sending Reggie Jackson and two future second-rounders the other way.
- Exercised Andre Drummond’s team option to retain veteran depth at center.
- Rumors swirl around potential trades involving Paul George or the No. 3 pick in the upcoming draft.
Fan & Front Office Sentiment
The season’s outcome has put pressure on GM Daryl Morey to reshape the roster. Patience is running thin among fans, especially with Embiid’s prime being wasted by back-to-back underwhelming finishes.
Looking Ahead
- Can Embiid and Maxey stay healthy and lead a competitive team?
- Is Paul George part of the long-term vision or trade bait?
- Will the team use or move the No. 3 draft pick for an established player?
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia entered 2024–25 with expectations of a deep playoff run. Instead, they were met with injuries, regression, and tough questions about their future. The next few months could determine the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.