76ers Offseason Dilemma: Trading Embiid and George for a Fresh Start
The 76ers face a pivotal offseason with injuries and underperformance. Trading Embiid and George may be the key to rebuilding a stronger, younger team for future success.
Philadelphia 76ers' future hinges on strategic off-season moves Reddit
In the 2024 offseason, the 76ers signed 6’8 “guard Paul George to a max contract, a four-year deal worth $212 million, hoping it would be the missing piece to contend for a championship. Although the season did not go as planned, George was out for most of the season due to injuries, in addition to the former MVP, Joel Embiid, who only played 19 games before being ruled out for the entire season. The 76ers finished 24-58, making them the 13th seed in the Eastern Conference.
Many believed that adding George alongside Embiid and rising star Tyrese Maxey would give Philadelphia one of the strongest cores in the league. However, things didn’t go as planned. With both George and Embiid hurt, Tyrese Maxey had to lead the team on his own. He played exceptionally well, scored more points, and earned his first All-Star selection, but it still wasn’t enough to lead the team to victory. On the bright side, Jared McCain was able to prove himself to the organization, showing that they didn’t make a mistake by picking him with the 16th overall pick. He averaged 15 PPG, 2.6 APG, and 2 RPG. However, his season ended short with a torn meniscus. Mcain’s strong rookie season showed he could be a part of the team’s future core alongside Maxey:
After another disappointing season and years of injury troubles, it’s clear that the 76ers need a new direction.
The 76ers have a few moves that can put them in the right direction. For example, trading Paul George; although George was only on the team for one season, he was unable to stay healthy, and he is only getting older. Why not trade him while he’s still able to play at a high level for younger players that the team can develop? In addition, trading Joel Embiid would be a great and smart move for the 76ers. Philadelphia was lucky enough to contend for a championship with a former MVP numerous times, but it wasn’t enough. Especially since he’s struggled with injury, it’s time for the 76ers to trade Embiid to a team that can contend for a title. Plus, the 76ers can gain significant value by trading Embiid. In addition, trading Embiid and George would not only help bring in young players but also free up cap space for future stars.
For years, the 76ers have attempted to build around Embiid with various stars, including Jimmy Butler, James Harden, and now Paul George, but injuries and a lack of chemistry have hindered their progress. The front office needs to accept that the window for this core may have already closed.
By trading George and Embiid, the 76ers would be a little closer to replicating what the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers have done by rebuilding their roster with young talent. If Philadelphia focuses on developing young talent, it could become one of the league’s most promising young teams in the next few years.
The 76ers have always been a team with high expectations, but sometimes realizing that you need to take a step back can lead to greater success. Another challenge for the 76ers moving forward is rebuilding trust within the organization, as they have faced several years of early playoff exits and roster changes, leading to a need to head in the same direction again to rebuild. The front office needs to prove itself by letting go and starting fresh by focusing on player development, clever drafting, and building a better and stronger culture. Philadelphia can create a team that can dominate the league.
