Youth should be served for Sixers in 2025-26 despite title expectations

USA Today

a day ago

Contrary to what a lot of the fan base believes, Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey isn't clueless. The man knows a ton about the game of basketball. He admitted he made a mistake with the 2024-25 season with a lack of youth surrounding his star trio of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George. That's why 2025-26 is focused on correcting those mistakes.
The Sixers landed VJ Edgecombe (19) with the No. 3 pick of the draft and should focus on his development along with Jared McCain (21), Adem Bona (22), Johni Broome (23), and Dominick Barlow (22). While Philadelphia will be looking to win a title led by Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George, it has to think about its future as well.
Morey did give his own expectations for Embiid and George while speaking in Las Vegas at summer league, but it's hard to count on both players right now. Embiid, who is recovering from his second left knee surgery in 14 months, spoke with ESPN and did not give a timeline for his return to the floor:
"We don't have a timeline," Embiid tells me. "Hopefully, sooner rather than later."
I ask if the organization supports his new, patient approach.
"I don't know how they feel. The only thing I'd say is -- this is a business," Embiid tells me. "It's all about the results. … If I come back early enough and I'm still not myself, guess what? You're not winning any games."
George recently underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee after experiencing some discomfort in an offseason workout. As terrific as everybody knows George is, it's hard to believe he will get back to an All-Star level at this stage of his career when considering he is now 35 years old. Of course, anything can happen, but it's hard to really count on either player at this point right now.
Which is why the Sixers should begin building toward the future. Even Maxey (24) is a big part of that. A youth brigade led by Maxey, Edgecombe, McCain, and--likely--Quentin Grimes (25) should be at the forefront. Philadelphia should explore what those four can do while giving Bona, Broome, Barlow, and Jabari Walker (22) extensive minutes.
If Embiid and George are healthy? Then great! Go chase a title. However, it's hard to believe they can get be healthy enough for that to become a reality. It would behoove the Sixers to explore what the younger pieces can do in 2025-26.