It’s been a quiet offseason for the Philadelphia 76ers. Daryl Morey has added Trendon Watford, VJ Edgecombe, Dominick Barlow (two-way), Jabari Walker (two-way) and Johni Broome this summer.
In a recent article for ESPN, Kevin Pelton gave the Sixers a “C” grade for their offseason moves.
“After last summer was highlighted by signing nine-time All-Star Paul George — an addition that went south — perhaps a quiet offseason is for the best,” Pelton wrote. “Still, it’s surprising Philadelphia is bringing back 10 players from last season’s roster, with restricted free agent Quentin Grimes likely to bring that total to 11. The 76ers are counting on better health and improved frontcourt depth rather than making significant changes to the roster.”
If healthy, Philadelphia should be among the best teams in the NBA. The problem is, they’re built on a foundation of injury concerns, where both Joel Embiid and Paul George struggle to remain healthy. As such, a lack of new faces could mean the Sixers run the risk of another lost season.
Morey has made a clear effort to add some youth and athleticism to the Sixers’ roster this summer. However, the team is still constructed around Embiid and George. Health will once again be the biggest deciding factor in the team’s chances of success.
Daryl Morey Details Sixers Offseason Goals
During a recent media availability, Morey explained his offseason decisions. The Sixers’ President of Basketball Operations detailed the reason he’s added youth and athleticism to Nick Nurse’s rotation.
“I think we went in with a big goal of being younger and more athletic among the group that we think will likely be on the floor,” Morey said, per the Philly Voice. “I feel we’ve done that…I think around Joel and Paul, I think pretty much every likely rotation player is 27, 28 or younger. So, yeah, we’re looking forward to that, and optimistic on where things are at with Joel. So, yeah, looking forward to next season.”
Both Edgecombe and Broome could have a part to play next season. However, the lack of front-court depth is still an issue that Morey must address.
Sixers Warned of Tyrese Maxey Growing Frustrated
During a recent episode of ESPN’s “First Take,” Kendrick Perkins warned the Sixers of allowing Tyrese Maxey to grow frustrated. Maxey will likely not want to endure another season where the franchise free-falls in the standings.
“They’re on the clock when it comes down to Tyrese Maxey, and when I say on the clock,” Perkins said. “…Because if they keep trending in this direction of no culture and no stability, guess what? Tyrese Maxey is gonna want out of Philadelphia, and we know who his agent is, it’s Rich Paul. And Rich Paul doesn’t give a damn. I’m telling you this – this is something I know.”
Maxey is part of a growing young core in Philadelphia. He will play a key role for years to come. However, if he believes the franchise can’t match his long-term goals, he may look for a new situation. It’s Morey’s job to ensure that doesn’t happen.
Sixers Get Middling Grade For Offseason Additions