After failing to reach the Eastern Conference Finals for another season, the Philadelphia 76ers hope they will redeem themselves this year.
The elimination to the Miami Heat in six games in the Eastern Conference semi-finals hurt the franchise, but the Sixers aim to come back stronger this season.
James Harden signed a two-year extension and remained with the team, taking a paycut so the Sixers can bolster the roster. As a result, defensive specialist PJ Tucker joined the squad, along with Danuel House Jr and Montrezl Harrell.
All three of them are excellent on- and off-ball defenders and their addition will be vital to the team’s effort to play better defense.
Expect Tyrese Maxey to play at an All-Star level, while Matisse Thybulle and Tobias Harris will have a key role as well.
Of course, the duo of James Harden and Joel Embiid will determine the team’s success, but the signs are positive for the time being. Harden worked on his physical condition this offseason and starts the season in a much better shape.
For his part, Embiid recovered from the postseason injuries he suffered and is now fully healthy and ready to take over for the franchise. The superstar duo and Tyrese Maxey can help the Philadelphia 76ers eventually come out of the East and reach the NBA Finals.
Head coach Doc Rivers knows that the team’s championship window will not be open forever, therefore the Philadelphia 76ers start the season in a win-now mode and with a sense of urgency.
The Sixers know they will face tough competition in the Eastern Conference, but expect them to be among the favorites for a Top-4 finish.
The Philadelphia 76ers kick off their 2022/23 season campaign with a trip to Boston to take on the Celtics at TD Garden this Tuesday, October 18.
