Philadelphia 76ers

This seems like a bit of a dark-horse prediction but if the Philadelphia 76ers underachieve once again, could they go in a different direction?

The blockbuster was pulled off this season that landed James Harden in Philly. Ben Simmons went to the Brooklyn Nets and both players were able to get a fresh start. This is not the first time this has happened.

The 76ers have been title contenders for a few years now but continue to come up short. They have not even made the conference finals yet.

Joel Embiid won the scoring title this season. Harden is at the top of his game while Tyrese Maxey continues to breakout. This could be the year for the 76ers but if it is not, it is another disappointing finish to the year.

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The front office has been aggressive and it is clear that Daryl Morey has a connection to Harden. This is not to say that he will be traded but if Damian Lillard is on the table, anything is possible.

If Harden is not involved, the 76ers would have to move Maxey and Matisse Thybulle, at the absolute minimum. It all depends on which direction the front office would like to go.

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The 76ers need to do what it takes to win a title. They have been in the mix for too long to not have advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals. With Lillard at the top, they would improve even further.