Image: Sixers Picture via Flickr (Photo by KA Sports Photos)
As the 2024–2025 NBA season approaches, the Philadelphia 76ers are brimming with excitement following the high-profile acquisition of nine-time All-Star Paul George. This move aims to revitalize a franchise that has endured early playoff exits for the past seven years. After finishing last season with a 47-35 record, the Sixers’ postseason hopes were dashed in the first round, where they fell to the New York Knicks in six games.
The central question looms: Can the Sixers conquer their greatest adversary — the injury bug? Star center Joel Embiid, a key figure in the lineup, has been particularly susceptible. Last season, Embiid played only 39 of 82 games, a statistic that contributed significantly to the team’s struggles. Despite securing the seventh seed, Embiid’s rushed return from injury hindered his performance in the playoffs.
Entering this season, the Sixers are the fourth most favored team, but the shadow of injuries continues to loom. With the NBA preseason underway, the pressure is on. Embiid recently spoke candidly about his health, indicating that he will not participate in back-to-back games this season—and possibly not for the rest of his career. “If I had to guess, I would probably never play back-to-backs the rest of my career,” he told ESPN.
The Sixers also made a strategic move in the draft, selecting Duke guard Jared McCain with the 16th pick. McCain excelled during his one-and-done season, boasting a 41% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. His sharpshooting could be a vital asset off the bench and may develop into a promising partnership with All-Star point guard Tyrese Maxey. Early in the preseason, McCain demonstrated his shooting prowess, raising hopes that he could secure a spot in the rotation.
However, the preseason hasn’t been without its own share of injury scares. On Oct. 14, Paul George hyperextended his left knee in a matchup against the Atlanta Hawks, casting doubt on his availability for the season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks. Adding to the concern, McCain suffered a hard fall in a game against the Brooklyn Nets on Oct. 16, resulting in a trip to the hospital for bruised lungs. Fortunately, he has since been released, but his status remains uncertain.
Despite these challenges, the talent on this Sixers roster is undeniable, positioning them as serious contenders for the NBA Finals this season. Yet, the lingering question remains: Can they maintain their health? The fanbase has long awaited another Larry O’Brien trophy, and all eyes will be on the team’s star trio of Embiid, Maxey, and George.
The Sixers kick off their season in Philadelphia against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday, Oct. 23. Mark your calendars, Sixers fans—this could be a pivotal season!
Brandon Bond is a fourth-year media and culture major with a minor in digital marketing.