In less than two weeks, the Philadelphia 76ers will conclude arguably their most disappointing season in franchise history. Throughout the year, Philadelphia’s roster sustained injuries from top to bottom, which forced it into a sudden tank for the better part of 2025. There are hardly any positives to this season, but there is one silver lining that could be critical to the 76ers’ championship aspirations next season.
With Philadelphia's top-end talent, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Kelly Oubre Jr., missing considerable time in the past month, such vacancies have created opportunities for other players to prove themselves. While the 76ers’ misfortune proved costly, these players wouldn't have gotten the chance to shine if it weren't for the once unfathomable circumstances.
"Quensanity"
In March, Quentin Grimes single-handedly gave Philadelphia fans a reason to tune into games in what was otherwise a lost season. Throughout the month, Grimes averaged 27.5 points per game on 50.8% shooting from the field and 40.2% shooting from deep, 5.1 assists per game, 4.8 rebounds per game, and 2.1 steals per game.
In a 31-day span, Grimes promptly disproved the common belief that he was just a quality two-way wing as improved his game in every facet. He took strides as an on-ball creator — improving as a finisher and playmaker. Grimes appeared more comfortable as a pick-and-roll initiator as he reacted to different coverages accordingly, all while remaining a top-notch “3&D” wing.
Justin Edwards has proven everyone wrong
With George and Oubre sidelined, Justin Edwards became a full-time starter and proved to the entire association that letting him go undrafted last year was a costly mistake. In his last 10 games, he averaged 16.7 points on 47.8% shooting from the field and 41.1% from beyond the arc, 4.2 rebounds per game, and 1.6 steals per game.
Edwards has evolved into a promising two-way forward with the ability to get to the rim off the dribble and pull up from mid-range. Similar to Grimes, not only is he a tenacious point-of-attack defender, but he also has the potential to mold into a multi-faceted player who can contribute to Philadelphia's short and long-term aspirations.
Adem Bona is thriving on both ends
However, Edwards isn't the only 76ers rookie to make the most of his unprecedented opportunity. With Embiid and Andre Drummond sidelined, Bona has established himself as one of the better rim protectors in his draft class. He averaged 13 points per game on 76.2% accuracy from the field, 8.7 rebounds per game, and 3.6 blocks per game in his last three contests.
While Bona’s foul discipline needs improvement, his rim presence has blown up opposing teams’ dribble penetration. His help rotations and shot-blocking ability have made up a high amount of Philadelphia's highlight plays recently while being a quality lob threat off the pick-and-roll.
If Philadelphia can retain Grimes in the upcoming free agency period, it can be one of the deeper teams in the league. With Grimes potentially starting or serving as a sixth man and Edwards and Bona providing an impact off the bench, the 76ers’ depth will be critical if they reach the postseason next year.