The Philadelphia 76ers are in need of an offensive upgrade before the 2024 NBA trade deadline. The Eastern Conference has become more competitive, with young and hungry teams ready to shake things up. To prepare for the challenging postseason ahead, the 76ers must make a move to strengthen their roster.
While it’s difficult to find the perfect piece at the trade deadline, the Sixers have a great team when everyone is healthy. However, with Joel Embiid’s exceptional performance this season, there is no excuse not to go all-in. The front office must do everything possible to build the best team around him.
The current 76ers roster has room for improvement, especially when it comes to offense. Although they have the sixth-best offensive rating in the league, they need more scoring talent to support Embiid. He carries a significant load on offense, with a usage percentage that ranks first this season and third-highest in NBA history. While the team can win with a high-usage cornerstone like Embiid, they still need a strong supporting cast.
While defensive reinforcements would be beneficial, the 76ers have historically performed well on defense with Embiid leading the way. His presence in the paint intimidates opponents and forces them to take tougher shots. However, it’s on the offensive end where the team has struggled. There is hope that Embiid will improve his execution, but the team still needs additional firepower.
Embiid has shown improvement as a playmaker, thanks to adjustments made by coach Nick Nurse. The off-ball motion in the 76ers’ offense has made it harder for defenses to double-team Embiid. However, there is a risk of relying too heavily on Embiid and Maxey, as the team lacks a third option as strong as last year’s Maxey.
In conclusion, the Philadelphia 76ers should look to add another highly skilled player to their roster. This offensive upgrade will better equip them for the challenges of the playoffs and increase their chances of success.
Maxey’s Rise as Sixers’ Second Option
In the world of basketball, Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a rising star for the Philadelphia 76ers. While he has proven himself capable of being the team’s second option, there are benefits to occasionally taking the ball out of his hands. Despite his exceptional skills with the ball, Maxey’s prowess as a shooter and attacker of closeouts should not be overlooked. Allowing him to showcase these talents throughout games will only enhance an already formidable offense.
One area where Maxey truly shines is in the corner three. In the past seasons, he has displayed remarkable accuracy, shooting an impressive 57 percent and 51 percent from that area. This season, his success rate has skyrocketed to an astonishing 60 percent. However, the more Maxey is burdened with running the offense, the fewer opportunities he has to exhibit his efficiency from the corner. It is a shame that Philly cannot fully capitalize on his exceptional off-ball threat due to his increased responsibilities as a playmaker.
Unfortunately, Maxey’s production has been on the decline. As the season has progressed, his points-per-game average, field goal percentage, and true shooting percentage have all decreased, while his turnovers have increased. The toll of being a premier option is starting to take its toll. The 76ers must alleviate some of this burden by providing Maxey with a co-creator on the perimeter. This will not only grant him easier scoring opportunities but also reduce his overall workload.
When considering potential additions to the team, it is important to address the defensive aspect. If the new guard lacks a reputation as a stud defender, concerns may arise regarding their compatibility alongside Maxey. However, it is worth noting that the guard would be replacing De’Anthony Melton, who, despite being a solid player on defense, is an undersized wing. The 76ers often struggle to match up against opposing guards with Melton on the court. As such, finding a bigger and more skilled player who can fill this role seems like a logical move. Melton’s starting position can easily be filled, and he may even be better suited for a high-minutes bench role.
In the realm of offense, creators come in various shapes and sizes. What the 76ers truly need are individuals who can contribute off the ball, providing floor spacing and generating additional advantages from the opportunities that Embiid and Maxey create. This type of player would greatly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities.
Rumors have circulated linking Dejounte Murray to the 76ers in recent weeks. While a major move like this may be unlikely, Murray’s potential addition could relieve some pressure from Embiid and Maxey. Notably, Murray has made significant improvements to his three-point shooting. If he continues on this trajectory and reduces his reliance on mid-range shots, he could prove to be a valuable asset to the team.
In conclusion, Tyrese Maxey’s rise as the Sixers’ second option has been remarkable. However, it is crucial to recognize the benefits of occasionally relieving him of his playmaking duties. By doing so, the team can fully utilize his exceptional shooting and attacking skills. Additionally, the 76ers must address Maxey’s declining production by providing him with a co-creator on the perimeter. This will not only grant him easier scoring opportunities but also alleviate some of the burden placed upon him. Ultimately, the addition of a player who can contribute off the ball and generate further advantages would greatly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities.
Bojan Bogdanovic is a phenomenal three-point shooter who can’t be stopped by the Detroit Pistons. The 6-foot-7, 34-year-old forward is a high-volume shooter who can elevate the 76ers offense and bail them out in tough situations. While his defense may have declined, he can still hold his own as a team defender.
Bogdan Bogdanovic is another player who excels at shooting threes. The Hawks guard can also score off the dribble. Playing alongside Embiid and Maxey would make him even more dangerous. Buddy Hield from the Indiana Pacers would also be a good fit for the same reasons, although Bogie is more capable of creating his own shots and has more playoff experience.
D’Angelo Russell and Malcolm Brogdon are both strong perimeter shooters who can handle the ball and score inside the arc. However, their effectiveness in the playoffs is questionable. They tend to be ball-stoppers and are not great defenders. Despite this, they could still contribute to the 76ers’ success.
While the 76ers need someone who can generate offense, it’s important that they can also hold up defensively in the playoffs. The ideal approach would be to find someone who can create offense and then add balance with players like Dorian Finney-Smith, Royce O’Neale, or Alex Caruso. However, the trade market rarely offers exactly what a team wants.
The 76ers have indicated that they are willing to rely on their offseason flexibility and cap space to make a significant move. Whether this is their long-term plan or a strategy to negotiate a better trade deal remains to be seen. This may not be their last chance to compete for a championship, but it’s unlikely they will have another opportunity as good as this one. Improving the roster, particularly finding another source of offense, is crucial.
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