It feels nearly impossible to predict the Philadelphia 76ers’ upcoming season, but there is still plenty of reason for excitement.
After a disastrous 2024-25 campaign, the 76ers are looking to turn things around next season. While the core of the roster is still mostly the same, one significant addition could help the 76ers make it back into the postseason.
After their awful season, the 76ers got some lottery luck and drafted VJ Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick. The rookie out of Baylor had some impressive showings in limited Summer League action and could be an immediate factor for Philadelphia when next season tips off.
Considering all of the issues that Philadelphia is set to enter next season with, there is a solid chance that Edgecombe’s opportunities could be abundant. In a recent ESPN story, one Eastern Conference GM made it clear that Edgecombe could be the real deal for the Sixers in year one.
"VJ might be Philly's second-best player by the end of the season, factoring in [Joel] Embiid's uncertain health," the GM said. "He's that good and will thrive playing in Nick Nurse's system. "
Embiid’s availability for the start of the season is still up in the air, and co-star Paul George’s health and skill level are both questionable at this point in his career. While Tyrese Maxey seems like the 76ers’ clear star next season as far as consistency, that second guy might just be Edgecombe.
The rookie could still be figuring things out while other young guys such as Jared McCain and Quentin Grimes get off to fast starts next season, but if Edgecombe can reach his full year-one potential, he might have a shot at taking the crown as Philadelphia’s No. 2.