The Philadelphia 76ers had arguably the worst offseason in the NBA. James Harden requested a trade, and the drama is still unfolding. The front office decided to preserve cap space in 2024 and only add one-year deals, despite a disappointing second-round playoff exit. The Sixers are betting on the addition of Nick Nurse and what they can get for Harden to keep them in contention.
The reigning MVP could shift to the center of the drama at any moment. Is Embiid content playing out this season or do the Sixers have to upgrade their roster before the deadline? They must keep him happy or Philadelphia could be starting The Process all over again.
Daryl Morey and the 76ers added pieces this offseason, but shopping for only one-year deals will haunt them by January. The signings could quickly go sideways and leave the franchise doubting their ability to make a postseason run. Which could quickly backfire?
4. Patrick Beverley
The 76ers are still sorting out the James Harden situation, but Pat Bev gives them some insurance either way. They were teammates and often starters in the same backcourt in Houston for five years from 2012 to 2017. Beverley can handle the ball and operate as a playmaker if The Beard is shipped elsewhere.
The problem is the Sixers are counting on a 35-year-old undersized point guard who has shown signs of slippage in recent years. Pat Bev lasted just 45 games with the Lakers last season because of what he called “inconsistent vibes”. Now, he heads to Philadelphia where they have to deal with a James Harden trade request and a potentially rocky season. The vibes could be worse.
If James Harden refuses to play, the Philadelphia 76ers may have to rely on Patrick Beverley for more than he can handle at this stage of his career, which could lead to plenty of regret from the franchise and their fans.