For the past six seasons, the Philadelphia 76ers have been a staple in the NBA playoffs. Whether they were led by “The Process” era or competing as legitimate title contenders, the Sixers were always in the mix. However, this year, things have taken a dramatic turn. For the first time since the 2016-17 season, Philadelphia is set to miss the playoffs.
It’s a shocking development for a team that started the season with championship aspirations. But between injuries, roster instability, and a brutally competitive Eastern Conference, the Sixers’ playoff streak is coming to an end. So, what went wrong?
Joel Embiid’s Injury Changed Everything
If there’s one reason that stands above the rest, it’s the injury to reigning MVP Joel Embiid. Before going down with a knee injury, Embiid was playing some of the best basketball of his career, averaging over 35 points per game and keeping the Sixers in the top half of the Eastern Conference standings.
However, once Embiid was sidelined, Philadelphia struggled to keep up. Despite the best efforts of Tyrese Maxey and a solid supporting cast, the Sixers simply couldn’t compete at the same level without their superstar. His absence left a massive void on both ends of the floor, and their record took a major hit as a result.
The James Harden Trade and Roster Instability
The Sixers started the season dealing with drama surrounding James Harden, who forced his way out of Philly in a trade to the Clippers. While the return package included solid role players like Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, and KJ Martin, the loss of an elite playmaker hurt the team’s offensive flow.
Without Harden, the Sixers leaned heavily on Maxey to take over as the secondary star alongside Embiid. Maxey had an All-Star season, but without Embiid for a significant stretch, the team lacked the firepower needed to keep pace in the East. The roster, while talented, wasn’t built to withstand the loss of a player as dominant as Embiid.
A Brutal Eastern Conference Race
Even if the Sixers had stayed somewhat competitive, the Eastern Conference didn’t do them any favors. The Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, and Cleveland Cavaliers remained dominant, while up-and-coming teams like the Orlando Magic and Indiana Pacers took major steps forward.
Meanwhile, teams that were expected to be on the fringe of the playoff race, like the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls, found ways to stay competitive. As the Sixers kept slipping in the standings, their margin for error disappeared. With Embiid missing extended time and other teams surging, their playoff hopes faded.
What’s Next for the Sixers?
Missing the playoffs for the first time in seven years is a tough pill to swallow, but it might lead to a reset for the franchise. Will the Sixers make major moves in the offseason? Will Embiid’s injury concerns force the team to rethink its long-term future?
One thing is certain—Philly fans are not used to missing the playoffs anymore. This season was a setback, but all eyes will be on how the Sixers bounce back.
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