5 former 76ers who would’ve turned Philly into true title contenders this season

The Philadelphia 76ers are trying to build an annual title contender around Joel Embiid. Tyrese Maxey has become a star, but the franchise has a flawed roster. They need more talent and role players who enhance their stars if they want to bring home another championship.

The Sixers plan on making a significant splash this summer. Embiid is the only player on their roster with a guaranteed contract for the 2024-25 season. Daryl Morey is chasing a third star before re-signing Tyrese Maxey and building out his team. Philly may have to settle for adding more depth and improving their odds that way.

The 76ers had the talent to be one of the best teams in the NBA, but they let players slip away for various reasons. If they had these talents back in the City of Brotherly Love, they would be in the championship race.

5. Andre Drummond

The Sixers signed Drummond to a one-year veteran minimum deal in the 2021 offseason, but he did not even last one full season in Philadelphia. The two-time All-Star was dealt to Brooklyn in the James Harden for Ben Simmons swap at the 2022 deadline. He became a free agent after the season and signed a multi-year deal with the Bulls.

Drummond remains an elite rebounder and strong finisher at the rim. He would play behind Joel Embiid but could step into a larger role with the big man sidelined. Drummond is 91st in win shares this season. He is no longer a star, but the 30-year-old big man would be the perfect backup for the 76ers superstar. Philadelphia had him, but let him go too quickly.

Would a backup center be enough to make them title contenders? Nick Nurse has depth and versatility when every player is healthy. Getting a bit more production at the five would certainly help the 76ers climb the standings, but he is far from the only former player who would help their current cause.