The Philadelphia 76ers recently concluded one of the worst seasons in the history of professional basketball, winning only 24 games. To put that in context, this total would tie the franchise’s record for the seventh fewest wins in its 76-year history. It equals the terrible record established in the 1994-95 season. The team went through a gruesome stretch, posting a similarly horrendous 5-30 over their final 35 contests. This dismal performance cut off their future prospects before they had a chance to blossom.
In truth, the 76ers troubles were further exacerbated by injuries and often inconsistent lineups. Star players Paul George, Tyrese Maxey, and MVP Joel Embiid all played on the same court for only 15 games this year. Embiid’s knee issues limited him to only 19 games, and he recently underwent arthroscopic surgery to address his troublesome left knee. Maxey has been lost, too, having been officially ruled out for the season last week after spraining a finger on his shooting hand.
Last offseason, George signed a long-term four-year, $212 million max contract with the organization. Sadly, he would prove to be one of the season’s many, many letdowns. He reflected on the team’s challenges, stating, “I think we were just in a scramble all year, to be honest.” He noticed how often players came and went in the team. This constant turnover resulted in a tremendous lack of consistency.
George credited head coach Nick Nurse for attempting to weather the storm. “I give Coach [Nick] Nurse a ton of credit for just kind of picking up pieces, literally, and trying to figure this thing out as we were going throughout the year,” he said. The 76ers’ lack of a consistent rotation eventually failed them during a grueling marathon of a season.
Despite these departures, Maxey is excited about the team’s upside. “The one positive that I do take away,” he said, “is that we know what it takes to get to that next level.” All is not lost, he thinks, and with truly committed work put in over the offseason, this team can maintain its championship aspirations.
The 76ers now hold a top-six-protected first-round pick in the upcoming draft, a crucial asset that could allow them to select a player like Cooper Flagg or another top prospect. This investment is a bright light shining for a franchise desperate to get back on their feet after a down season.
Maxey stressed the need for getting ready for next steps down the line. “Today is our last game. Whenever everybody decides to start working out again, that’s when our season for next year starts,” he stated. He mentioned belief in all of his teammates and the organization’s dedication to putting in the hard work as they work towards being better.
Though George recognized the potential of their roster on paper, he knows that comes with the territory and those aspirations need to turn into something real. “The names on the paper… it looks nice. It does,” he commented. Although he demanded that the team need to outwork everyone, they must begin on day one of training camp next year.
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