Will The 76ers Lose This Superstar?
76ers Need A Plan
When the 76ers originally landed James Harden, it was considered a massive win. They were able to trade Ben Simmons, a player who had no value, for a 21/10 player. Harden quickly made an impact with the 76ers and averaged around 20 points and ten assists right away.
Harden embraced his role even more in 2023 and became an extremely efficient guard. Harden led the league in assists and unlocked Joel Embiid offensively.
The 76ers will need another guard or wing. A player who can make life easier for Embiid would be ideal. With Harden gone, Embiid will need to consistently need to create for himself. While he can already do that, Harden always set him up in desirable situations where he gets a good matchup.
Nobody Can Run The Offense
While Tyrese Maxey is a potential star, losing Harden is a massive downgrade for Philly. While Harden wasn't the player he used to be with the 76ers, he ran the offense. The pick-and-roll between Harden and Joel Embiid unlocked Embiid's mid-range game and elevated him to MVP status. Harden also was terrific setting up role players like P.J. Tucker and De'Anthony Melton for open three point attempts.
Harden was the engine that made the 76ers run, and while Maxey has shown lots of scoring talent, Maxey will not be the play maker James Harden is.
Likely Can't Compete In The East
Even with Harden departing, the 76ers still have a talented enough team to be a top four seed. They have the MVP in Joel Embiid, an emerging star who has already averaged 20 points in Tyrese Maxey, and a new elite coach in Nick Nurse.
However, with the Celtics getting Kristaps Porzingis, the Bucks already having the championship experience the 76ers likely won't be good enough to make a finals push. The 76ers fell short with James Harden. Unless Tyrese Maxey elevates into a consistent all-star level player, they won't have the firepower to win the East.
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