IS THE PROCESS FINALLY OVER? Blog 4 (Nick)

For over a decade, the Philadelphia 76ers have lived by the mantra: “Trust the Process.” But after yet another season ending in disappointment—and this time, not even making the playoffs—the question has to be asked: is the process finally over?

Since 2012, the Sixers have failed to advance past the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Year after year, promising regular seasons and flashes of dominance have crumbled in the second round, often due to a combination of untimely injuries, questionable coaching decisions, and a glaring lack of depth. This season was no different—but even worse, the Sixers didn’t even get the chance to fall short in the playoffs.

Injuries once again defined their season. Joel Embiid, the team’s cornerstone and 2023 MVP, missed significant time after undergoing knee surgery—yet the front office still committed over $200 million to him, fully aware of his injury history. Add in a similar massive contract handed to aging veteran Paul George, and it’s no surprise that fans are questioning the judgment of ownership and management.

As the second half of the season unraveled, the Sixers quietly shifted into tank mode, knowing their postseason hopes were fading. Now, the team sits in a precarious spot: outside the playoffs and praying for lottery luck. Their 2025 first-round pick is top-5 protected—if it doesn’t land within that range, it’ll be sent to the Oklahoma City Thunder, a painful reminder of past trades and missteps.

With Joel Embiid likely to miss most—or possibly all—of next season, it’s time for the Sixers to seriously consider rebuilding without their superstar. The team has a budding star in Tyrese Maxey and promise in rookie sharpshooter Jared McCain, but help is needed. Whether it be the 2025 NBA draft or this summer in free agency, Philadelphia must address their weaknesses. Sixers need a rim-protecting big who can anchor the paint and another proven scorer who can ease the offensive burden on Maxey.

After years of hope & heartbreak, the Sixers now face a crossroads. The process may be over. Now it’s time to build something that actually works.