The plan all along…
Positive begets positive. Momentum in the right direction attracts more energy in the same direction. The Philadelphia 76ers waited patiently because once the team begins to win, everything happens far more rapidly.
In short, the plan is for the team to pack everything they’ll need for a championship run now, because there are no pit-stops along the way. The roster is close to finished now. Swap out a veteran and promote a younger player going forward, but the key to success now is to form the team, and define the roles as well as possible.
What was Sam Hinkie thinking?
But that doesn’t mean this team won’t attract interest. Who wouldn’t want to play on a team having a great time on the court, win-or-lose? Who wouldn’t want to earn cheers from the toughest, smartest, and most passionate fan base in the NBA? In the end, whether the team is led by former executive Sam Hinkie, or current executive Bryan Colangelo, the strengths of this city and franchise remain the same.
Whomever is at the helm, the plan is simple. Load up the ranks with incredibly talented young players until they find some success. Then, add a smattering of NBA veterans to get them to the next level as the young players develop. Trade players out who do not project as a fit, and add new young players or reasonably priced veterans and play the next season. Keep pruning and grafting until the team competes for a championship.
Next: Joel Embiid expects to be ready for training camp
For those who think LeBron James will never consider the Philadelphia 76ers, keep this in mind. Nobody projected J.J. Redick coming to Philadelphia this season. Should the team get to the playoffs, all bets are off. Basketball is awfully fun to play in Philadelphia right now. And that, in the end, was the plan all along.