What's Happening?
The Philadelphia 76ers are facing a challenging season ahead, following a disappointing 24-58 record in the 2024-25 NBA season, marking their worst performance in eight years. Injuries to key players such as Paul George and Joel Embiid have been significant factors in their struggles. As the 2025-26 season approaches, predictions suggest the team may finish with a 38-44 record, potentially missing the playoffs again. The health of George and Embiid is crucial, with concerns about their ability to play a full season due to age and injury history. The team is set to open the season against the Boston Celtics on October 22, with FanDuel Sportsbook setting their over/under at 41.5 wins.
Why It's Important?
The potential for the Philadelphia 76ers to miss the playoffs again could have significant implications for the team's future and fan base. The reliance on aging stars with injury histories poses a risk to their competitive edge in the Eastern Conference. If key players remain sidelined, younger talents like Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe may have opportunities to develop, but the team's overall performance could suffer. The 76ers' ability to navigate these challenges will impact their standing in the league and their long-term strategy.
What's Next?
The 76ers will need to manage player health carefully and possibly adjust their strategy to accommodate potential absences. The team's performance in the early games of the season will be crucial in setting the tone for their playoff aspirations. Monitoring the health of George and Embiid will be essential, and the team may need to rely more on their younger players and veterans like Eric Gordon and Kyle Lowry for leadership.
