The 2024-25 NBA season, which was expected to be a breakthrough year for the Philadelphia 76ers after a busy summer of promising acquisitions, has instead begun with a series of disappointing losses. With a 3-13 record, the team that was once considered a championship contender has now plummeted to one of the worst records in the league. What has led to the downfall of this seemingly perfect roster?
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A Perfect Summer Turned into a Nightmare
In July 2024, the 76ers made headlines by signing Paul George, a 9-time All-Star, to a 4-year, $212 million deal. Alongside George, the team added players like Caleb Martin, Eric Gordon, and Andre Drummond, aiming to create a star-studded lineup alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
That summer, the 76ers were regarded as “winners” of the offseason. But just a month into the season, the team found itself in a crisis. Joel Embiid, the 2023 NBA MVP, has only played 4 games due to knee injuries and suspensions. Paul George, the big off-season acquisition, has been sidelined by hamstring issues and has only played 8 games. Even Tyrese Maxey, a key player for the team, has missed 6 games due to a hamstring injury.
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Internal Issues and Unresolved Tensions
One of the biggest problems for the 76ers is not just the on-court performance but also internal issues within the locker room. After a loss to the Miami Heat, Maxey publicly criticized Embiid for his frequent tardiness and lack of commitment to the team. This sparked a rift between players and created an environment of distrust and disharmony within the squad.
In addition, sensitive details from a team meeting were leaked, further fueling tension and division. Rather than resolving the issues, this only made the situation worse and further eroded the team’s morale.
Embiid’s Struggles and Criticism
Joel Embiid, expected to lead the 76ers through the difficult times, has been under heavy criticism for both his performance and attitude. In a game against the New York Knicks on November 12, Embiid scored only 13 points in 26 minutes, a far cry from his MVP-level performances.
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Beyond his on-court struggles, Embiid’s controversial comments have added fuel to the fire. In an interview, he said, “I’ve done too much for this damn city to be treated like this.” His remarks were not only upsetting to fans but also caused further rifts within the team.
Paul George and the “Curse” of Big Contracts
The signing of Paul George was initially seen as a perfect fit for the 76ers. However, the star player has failed to live up to expectations. George has played limited games and has faced heavy criticism for his inconsistent performances.
In a game against his former team, the Los Angeles Clippers, George scored 23 points, but the 76ers lost 125-99. This loss raised doubts about the true value of the “big splash” acquisition.
Jared McCain: The Only Bright Spot
One of the few bright spots in an otherwise disastrous season for the 76ers has been rookie Jared McCain. Despite the chaos surrounding the team, McCain has emerged as a strong contender for Rookie of the Year, averaging 16.6 points per game. His performance has given fans something to root for in an otherwise bleak season.
Expectations and Increasing Pressure
The 76ers entered the season with expectations of winning at least 51 games, but that target now seems far out of reach. Analysts suggest that they need at least 33 wins to secure a spot in the play-in tournament, a daunting task given their current state.
Some internal sources have even revealed that the team is considering “packing it in” if no positive changes are seen soon. This would mean a complete rebuild, a painful reality for fans who had high hopes for the season.
What’s Next for the 76ers?
Although there are still many games left in the season, the 76ers seem to be facing a full-blown crisis, with issues ranging from injuries and performance to internal team dynamics. Can they turn things around and salvage the season, or will this be one of the biggest failures in franchise history?
With a talented roster but deep-rooted issues, the future of the 76ers depends not only on the players’ performances but also on the leadership and crisis management from the coaching staff. One thing is certain: without significant changes, the 76ers’ championship dreams will remain just that—dreams.
