Sixers Aim to Bounce Back After Injury-Plagued Season
The Philadelphia 76ers are looking to rebound in the 2025-26 season after a disappointing 24-58 campaign marred by key injuries. With a healthy roster and several new pieces, the team is optimistic about returning to the playoffs under head coach Nick Nurse.
Injury Woes Derailed Last Season
The Sixers were ravaged by injuries in 2024-25, with stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George all missing significant time. Embiid played in just 19 games due to knee issues, while George was limited to 38 appearances as he recovered from offseason knee surgery. The absences of their top players proved too much to overcome, leading to the team's first playoff miss in seven years.
"It was just one of those seasons where nothing went right," said Nurse. "We had high hopes, but the injuries really derailed us. Now it's about getting our guys healthy and building the right chemistry."
Offseason Moves Aim to Bolster Depth
In an effort to improve their depth and reduce the burden on their stars, the Sixers made several noteworthy offseason moves. They drafted promising guard VJ Edgecombe with the 18th overall pick and signed veteran forward Paul Flagg in free agency.
Edgecombe, who impressed in the team's preseason trip to Abu Dhabi, is expected to provide scoring punch off the bench. Meanwhile, Flagg's two-way 3-and-D skill set should complement the Sixers' starting lineup.
"We wanted to add some versatility and playmaking to our roster," explained general manager Elton Brand. "VJ has a really bright future, and Paul is the kind of veteran presence that can steady us on both ends."
Embiid, George Progressing in Rehab
The key to the Sixers' success this season will be the health of their superstar duo. Both Embiid and George have been diligently rehabbing their injuries and are making positive strides in their respective recoveries.
Embiid, who underwent a minor knee procedure in the offseason, has been ramping up his on-court work and is expected to be ready for the season opener. George, meanwhile, has been participating in full-contact practices and is targeting a return in the preseason.
"It's been a long road, but I'm feeling better every day," said Embiid. "I'm excited to get back out there and help this team win. We have the talent, we just need to stay healthy."
TL;DR
- The Philadelphia 76ers are looking to bounce back after a 24-58 season derailed by key injuries to Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George.
- The team made several offseason moves to bolster their depth, including drafting guard VJ Edgecombe and signing veteran forward Paul Flagg.
- Both Embiid and George are progressing well in their respective rehab programs and are aiming to be ready for the start of the season.
- The Sixers are optimistic about their chances of returning to the playoffs under head coach Nick Nurse, provided they can keep their star players healthy.