At this point in time, the Philadelphia 76ers stand in an unenviable position. As this season pretty much proved, the franchise is clinging onto a defective nucleus, while their future remains a dicey proposition as most of their assets are dependent on things that are out of their control.
This year’s draft pick will probably serve as their most valuable asset to improve the roster, yet that is also far from a safe bet. Their other attractive pieces, meanwhile, could either pan out or turn out to be complete duds.
Philly is currently skating on thin ice, and their situation only limits their options moving forward. For starters, not only do they have a messy salary book, but they have also rendered themselves ineligible from going after huge names. It also doesn’t help that they have seemingly become a neglected destination.
Case in point? Look no further than the anticipated bidding war for this superstar, who is still at a crossroads regarding a long-term commitment to his ball club.
The 76ers are not even eligible to dream about Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic, who was traded to the Lakers in what was arguably the most shocking move in NBA history, is reportedly still on the fences about signing an extension with his new team after they were quickly ousted in the first-round by the lower-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves in just five games.
For now, there is nothing that points to Doncic entertaining the thought of entering free agency, which he can do after next seasion, but as early as now, teams are already doing the prep work necessary to make their respective cases as possible landing spots.
Count the 76ers out, though. Despite Daryl Morey probably salivating at the idea of chasing Doncic, the franchise simply has no way to make that a realistic venture. Thanks to their grand overpays for Joel Embiid and Paul George, Philly is now out for the running for marquee free agents like Doncic, unless they clear cap space via trade by the time the All-Star hits the open market.
Unfortunately, no team in their right mind will move heaven and earth just to match salaries with the 76ers for either Embiid or George and pull off a trade. It’s just not going to happen at this juncture. If anything, the team’s own impatience has held them hostage.
A clear generational talent, Luka Doncic would have given the Philadelphia 76ers a proven franchise centerpiece who can lead them to numerous championships. But thanks to their own doing, that will only be daydream matter, probably forever.