The Philadelphia 76ers are making noise in the Eastern Conference once again, bouncing back from a lackluster 2024-25 season. While much of the spotlight has been on the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, and Cleveland Cavaliers, the Sixers are quietly reminding everyone why they shouldn't be overlooked, especially when their roster is healthy.
As we hit the two-thirds mark of the 2025-26 NBA season, the Sixers boast a 30-26 record, putting them in the sixth seed in the East. They've maintained a top-six position for much of the season, but recent struggles have them teetering on the edge of slipping further down the standings.
The absence of Joel Embiid, sidelined with right knee and shin issues, has been a significant blow. Without their star big man, the Sixers have gone 11-14, and a recent four-game skid has them just half a game from dropping to the eighth seed.
Tyrese Maxey has been candid about the team's current predicament. After a tough 126-111 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, he spoke to the media with refreshing honesty.
“It’s going to take a lot,” Maxey stated. “We dug ourselves a hole, and only we can dig out of it. We’re in this thing together.”
Maxey's words underscore the team's unity and determination to overcome their challenges. But the Sixers' problems are compounded by the absence of Paul George, who is serving a suspension for a banned substance violation. His return isn't expected until the final weeks of the season, further straining the team's resources.
Despite these setbacks, the Sixers showed glimpses of potential against the Pelicans, leading by eight at halftime. However, the second half saw their offense falter, allowing New Orleans to seize control. Maxey is determined to prevent this pattern from continuing.
“We played a really good half, and then we played a good start to the third. Then it was bombs away. We tried to swing it back, but it’s too late,” he reflected.
The Sixers can no longer rely solely on Embiid's brilliance. While the former MVP remains a force, his availability is increasingly limited.
For Philadelphia to remain competitive, they need a collective effort, maximizing efficiency on both ends of the court. This current losing streak should be a wake-up call-it's time for the team to rally and redefine their season.