The 2024–25 Philadelphia Sixers went from All-in to win the Championship to being the most disappointing team this season. The newly formed Big 3 of Embiid, George, and Maxey just tallied 24 Wins for their first run together. Let’s see if there are some redeemable silver linings that happened to them this year.
The Good:
Jared McCain’s Historic Rookie Season:
First-round pick Jared McCain (No. 16 overall) was a revelation, earning a strong case for Rookie of the Year before a season-ending injury. He set an NBA rookie record with eight consecutive games of at least three three-pointers and joined elite company with a 30-point, 10-assist game. His TikTok-star energy and shooting prowess were bright spots.
Tyrese Maxey’s Consistency:
Despite the team’s struggles, Maxey averaged a career-high 26.3 points per game and improved defensively. He set a franchise record with nine consecutive games of at least three three-pointers and remained a beacon of hope, with fans and analysts noting his leadership in tough times.
Guerschon Yabusele’s Breakout:
Signed to a one-year, $2.1 million deal after a standout Olympic performance, Yabusele became a fan favorite, dubbed the “Dancing Bear.” He started 12 games, contributed key offensive rebounds, and hit crucial shots, like a corner three in the season opener. His energy and hustle were unexpected positives.
Role Player Contributions:
Quentin Grimes emerged as a priority re-signing candidate after a strong showing amid injuries, while Kelly Oubre Jr. brought defensive intensity and vowed to “bring the swag back” next season. Kyle Lowry, despite a hip injury, provided veteran leadership and drew 14 charges in 45 games
Draft Lottery Potential:
The poor record positioned the Sixers for a high pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with fans eyeing prospects like Cooper Flagg. The team also retains a top-six protected first-round pick, offering a chance to add a foundational player to complement Maxey and McCain.
The Bad
Abysmal Record and Playoff Miss:
The Sixers finished the season with a 24-58 record, one of the worst in the Eastern Conference, and missed the playoffs for the first time in seven years.
Disappointing Start:
The Sixers started 2-11, labeled as “rock bottom” by fans and analysts. Despite adding Paul George as a marquee free agent, the team was uncompetitive early, even against weaker opponents like the Toronto Raptors. This poor start buried them in a hole too deep to climb out of.
Injury-Plagued Star Trio:
The “Big Three” of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey were ravaged by injuries. Embiid played only 13 games due to knee issues, posting a career-low 25.2 ppg and a -14.7 net rating, with some suggesting he should’ve been shut down earlier this season. George appeared in just 41 games, also hampered by injuries. Maxey, while more durable, only played 52 games this season.
Lack of Team Chemistry and Execution:
Injuries prevented Embiid, George, and Maxey from developing chemistry, with the trio playing together only three times all season. The team struggled with fundamental issues like rebounding, shooting, and pace, ranking near the bottom of the league in possessions per game (97.64). Coach Nick Nurse was criticized for not adapting strategies to the roster’s limitations.
