The Philadelphia 76ers created a ton of cap space in hopes of convincing a superstar to join them, and it happened as Paul George agreed to leave his hometown franchise. The move came as a shock after Shams Charania tweeted the Sixers' lack of interest on June 20. Things clearly changed and now Philadelphia has one of the best two-way players in the world on their roster.
Philly has plenty to sort out. Joel Embiid, Paul Reed, and Ricky Council IV are the only players under contract. They will re-sign Tyrese Maxey and hope to bring back several of their free agents. Philly also worked out deals with Andre Drummond, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Eric Gordon before agreeing with George. The 76ers need more talent if they want to compete for a championship in 2025 and beyond.
Daryl Morey landed a superstar in free agency and put the cap space he created to fantastic use. Here is a look at the instant reaction and analysis to the agreement.
Instant reaction to Paul George agreeing with the 76ers
Chris Haynes reported there was optimism just before 4 p.m. ET on June 30, but free agency did not kick off until two hours later.
Joel Embiid was quick to Tweet his excitement, and he was far from the only one.
HERE WE GO!!!!
— Joel Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) June 30, 2024
The sixers with Paul George can definitely come out the east by the way if healthy. No need for the mental gymnastics that team is really good.
— Jamal Cristopher (@JamCristopher) June 30, 2024
There were even more tea leaves when PG’s wife followed Embiid’s wife on IG. The Clippers even announced George was leaving the franchise, but fans were left waiting for announcement. It became clear that George was on the move to Philadelphia. It just took longer than expected for things to get announced.
Paul George agreeing with 76ers makes Philadelphia a title contender
The Sixers have arguably the best top three in the NBA when healthy. Embiid was the MVP in 2023, and George is a nine-time All-Star. Both have significant injury histories, but excitement should be everywhere about the new addition. George could be the piece that finally lets the 76ers get past the second round of the playoffs.
Daryl Morey got his star but needs to complete his roster to win a championship. George is 34 years old and still his prime. It is a fantastic top three, but that is not enough.
They want to re-sign Kyle Lowry, Nicolas Batum, and Kelly Oubre Jr. from last season’s team. Batum is rumored to be not coming back, but Oubre did.
Adding the two veterans is a strong start, but the Sixers would still need more capable players rounding out their playoff rotation. They got some Embiid insurance by agreeing with Andre Drummond and would love to find a couple of ring chasers to put them in the same category as the defending champion Celtics heading into next season.
Paul George should put up monster numbers in Philadelphia. Do not be surprised to see him average over 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists per game. His defense is crucial next to Tyrese Maxey, and George has the chance to maximize both the Sixers stars.
There should be a ton of excitement in the City of Brotherly Love. The Philadelphia 76ers signed the best free agent available away from his hometown. That is no small feat and should set Philly up to be in title contention next season. Things could go sideways, but the potential is there. That is all Sixers fans could ask for entering the offseason.