The Philadelphia 76ers definitely did not envision having the kind of win-loss card they currently have this deep into the season when they went ahead last summer and hoarded talented players entering the 2024-25 campaign. Unfortunately, all expectations for the squad have been crushed by the reality that this ball club is nowhere near as good as everyone thought it would be.
Philly’s offseason last year was prominently marked by the arrival of Paul George, whom the front office signed to a four-year, max contract. He was pegged to be that perfect third star next to Joel Embiid and Tyrese maxey, but even early in the season, it was apparent that it would not be the case.
Thanks to ill-timed injuries that disrupted his rhythm and chemistry with teammates, George simply failed to generate much momentum going for him. Adding in his age, his steep decline this season should have probably been precedented. As a result, nearly every 76ers fan wants him gone, although the hows of that situation point to a moot end.
The 76ers already have the best “replacement” for Paul George on the team
At this rate, Philadelphia is most likely going to be forced to keep George for the next three seasons. But to help them mitigate his negative value for now, they should keep close tabs on one emerging player on the roster who could probably even supplant the nine-time All-Star if his decline continues — Justin Edwards.
The rookie forward, who came out of the 2024 NBA Draft as an undrafted prospect, has been a revelation for the 76ers this season. While overshadowed early on by Jared McCain and now, Quentin Grimes, Edwards has been a rock-solid complementary player for the team even amidst a lost season.
Edwards, who was actually a highly-touted prospect out of high school, has reminded everyone why he commanded a lot of attention years ago. He started the year more modestly as a three-and-D, plug-and-play piece, but after being given more leeway offensively, he has shown glimpses of being a capable shot creator himself.
Averaging 10.2 points on 46.1 percent shooting from the field, which includes a steady 36.8 conversion rate from rainbow country, Edwards looks the part of a potential two-way contributor at forward. And if George does not disrupt his spiraling production, he should be in line for an even bigger role as soon as next season.
The Philadelphia 76ers do not really need Justin Edwards to produce the sheer numbers that Paul George is capable of, but as long as he improves his game as a three-and-D type of player who can also create for himself, count on him being the All-Star’s nominal successor.