The Philadelphia 76ers had a tough go of it in the 2024-25 season, and it’s safe to say things didn’t go as planned.
With high hopes of contending for a championship, the team struggled with injuries, particularly to star players Joel Embiid and Paul George. They ended up with a disappointing 24-58 record, which was a far cry from the success they were aiming for.
Despite these setbacks, NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer reported that the 76ers are committed to sticking with their core group. They are holding on tight to Embiid, George, and Tyrese Maxey for the 2025-26 season.
Insiders believe that if these players can stay healthy, they might still have a shot at making a real run for the title.
“By simply staying at No. 3, Philadelphia would introduce an $11.1 million salary onto its books for 2025-26. So the Sixers expect to operate near (or maybe even above) the second apron for this upcoming campaign, sources say, as they prepare to give Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxeyanother shot to try to contend for a championship after they managed to appear in just 15 games (7-8) together this season,” they reported.
The Philadelphia 76ers plan to give Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey another chance next season to compete for a championship, per @TheSteinLine
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 19, 2025
“By simply staying at No. 3, Philadelphia would introduce an $11.1 million salary onto its books for 2025-26. So the Sixers… pic.twitter.com/Pv50EyE5qd
Last season, the trio of Embiid, George, and Maxey only played 15 games together, which really limited their chances to build chemistry on the court. Embiid, the reigning MVP, was sidelined for 19 games, while George managed to play 41.
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Maxey, who logged the most minutes with 52 games played, also had to sit out for chunks of the season. It’s no wonder the 76ers fell short of even making it to the play-in tournament in the Eastern Conference.
Philadelphia 76ers Have Hopes For Free Agency
While the Philadelphia 76ers have a lot to do to keep their trio intact, they have some exciting buildup this free agency.
Quentin Grimes had an impressive performance during his time with the 76ers. He averaged 21.9 points in 28 games after his trade from the Dallas Mavericks.
Quentin Grimes ‘24-25 scoring OTD pic.twitter.com/kyShYIOJp5
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) June 19, 2025
He achieved new career highs, including scoring 44 and 46 points in consecutive games. As he prepares for free agency, expectations are that the Sixers will aim to re-sign him. Although the cost is a point of consideration, especially given their limited cap space.
Philadelphia can create additional cap flexibility before June 30 by trading away the salaries of players like Andre Drummond and Kelly Oubre Jr.
That way, it could help secure a deal for Grimes and potentially Guerschon Yabusele as well.
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