5 Things Philadelphia 76ers must do before the trade deadline

2. Create a path to build a title contender

Daryl Morey has a plan. He is always chasing the next star and certainly thinks he can land one for next season, but how does he fill out the Sixers roster? They cannot have three stars and minimum players. One injury will derail the season, and it will be tough to win in the playoffs relying so heavily on three players.

Acquiring a third star means letting go of Tobias Harris and several other veterans. How will the Sixers replace their production? They certainly need at least one 3-and-D wing with size. Embiid is an elite rim protector and rebounder, but Maxey is a subpar defender. Philadelphia needs size and perimeter defense to be a contender.

Morey should try to acquire some of the pieces now, especially if the 76ers are not signing a third star in free agency. Can they get Royce O’Neale or Bruce Brown on the cheap before the deadline? Every team wants wings, so the price is rarely down. The Sixers need to strike if they see a reasonable opportunity.

The Philadelphia 76ers may find a star wing like Paul George. If that is the case, they need another ball-handler capable of running the offense and getting the team organized. Morey could look to fill that hole too.