The Sixers should follow the following five steps in order to maximize their offseason.
Sixers offseason step 1: Figure out the team’s stance on Ben mSimmons
If the 76ers are set on trading Ben Simmons, they need to have that mindset going into free agency. That does not mean they have to rush a trade — they can wait — but they will need to build a roster that accounts for Simmons’ potential departure .
They will need to fill the gap that will appear if he is traded. That includes playmaking, size, and someone to fill the point guard position. Trading with Toronto, for example, may relieve a few of those concerns, with players like Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, or Pascal Siakam in the mix.
Sixers offseason step 2: Let Dwight Howard walk or find size to help
When the 76ers’ bench entered the game last season, they struggled and were exposed in the playoffs. A major reason for this was that they were getting outsized and out-rebounded. Dwight Howard was usually only the only guy above 6-foot-7 on the court, unless Simmons was running with the bench squad. They need to help the bench. Dwight can be a great leader, but it became clear he struggled to lead a bench unit.
Sixers offseason step 3: Don’t be afraid in free agency
Philly will not be able to spend big this offseason, but with this being a weak free agent class, that is okay. They do have an opportunity to add some pieces that will help. A guy like Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, or maybe even Spencer Dinwiddie, would all benefit the roster.
Someone to keep your eye on is Victor Oladipo. Oladipo is coming off an injury and may look to just sign a one-year deal because he wants to prove himself to help himself get paid in the next offseason. If the Sixers can get him for a good price, it would be a huge help for the 76ers and one could argue, he may be a piece that helps Simmons stay in Philly.
Sixers offseason step 4: Develop the youth
In 2020-21, Sixers fans saw a major glimpse of what Tyrese Maxey and Paul Reed could be in this league. This offseason will be huge to their development. Though I doubt we see Maxey in the summer league, it wouldn’t be surprising if Reed plays to get more experience and growth.
Depending on how Philadelphia spends this offseason, Reed may need to take a larger role off the bench. If you follow Tyrese Maxey on Instagram, he is in the gym, putting in the work. This has fans excited for the future — a player who really wants to get better and prove his worth.
Sixers offseason step 5: Continue to explore the trade market
A lot of people have talked about every possible situation to get Ben Simmons out of Philadelphia, but Daryl Morey may also want to look at possible options to move Tobias Harris. Harris is getting paid around $30 million per year and has yet to make an All-Star game.