James Harden, yes, The James Harden, has now added the Philadelphia 76ers to the list of possible teams he might join. With all the changes due to COVID-19, the 76ers are focusing on the advantages of change and positioning themselves for the best possibility to be championship contenders. Let’s imagine, there is no pandemic, and everyone is back to “normal.” Now, imagine, Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and James Harden on the court. What a fantastic change; all of these phenomenal players on the same team. The acquisition of James Harden would be a pivotal change the team needs to get them to the status of a superstar team if the trade comes to fruition.
Let’s not forget our existing power players, Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, the all-star selections, who have proven they are capable of superstardom. That said, the insight from both the management and coaching of the 76ers that we all missed for years, is back. The acquisition of Doc Rivers, a reputable head-coach, and the magic of Darel Morey, the President of Basketball Operations, was only the start to a transformed 76ers. Last season, the team lacked the firepower of 3 point shots, but with the help of Seth Curry, this season could be different. Curry, the three-point star, is the answer we’ve all been waiting for. Sharpshooter, Seth Curry, is the go-to person that will complete the perimeter game, while Danny Green brings with him championship experience. Now, with Brett Brown beyond the horizon, Doc Rivers answers all the requirements for a winning team, as he gets to work to form a cohesive team to match his unique coaching style. Dwight Howard will complement the team with his own strengths as an experienced leader. Furthermore, Tyrece Maxey’s defense is solid, and he has a tenacity that can help pick up the speed of the game. Combine all this with Philadelphia spirit, and just imagine the possibilities!
The 76ers have the most potential to be a dominant force, as they now have an abundance of talent and outstanding potential. Danny Green can help cultivate the younger players offensively and mesh within a new franchise. The mastermind, Darley Morey, knows how championships are won on the court, and the front office of the franchise plays a huge part in this success. The 76ers took a risk naming Daryl Morey as their new president and he knows how to place talent on the floor. With the Philly energy in the backcourt, Ben Simmons’ shooting will surely be complemented with Danny Green being able to move on the floor and provide sharpshooting accuracy. Dwight Howard averaged 7 points and 7 rebounds last season, and it came with grit and rim protector presence, so he will surely help the defense. His game is different from Embiid’s, so they will accomplish more for each other on the court. It certainly seems like the 76ers have a new identity, and just imagine if more strength emerges.
Although the 76ers have all of this newly gained potential, James Harden is still the key to success for this team. Joel Embid and Ben Simmons are great players, but they have competing playstyles on the court. Similarly, all of the newly added players are great, but not all stars that can guarantee a championship. Acquiring James Harden, however, would certify their success due to his consistent play-making abilities and statistics. Over the past three years, he has averaged over 30 points per game, 7.5 assists per game, and was selected for the All-NBA team over 7 times! These achievements are unheard of, especially for someone of his age. Combining the talents of Embiid, Simmons, and Harden would be ideal. However, if it required the trade of a current superstar, Ben Simmons would have to go. Harden would be able to fill his lack of not only scoring, but also all-around play.
As the 76ers make a turn to be a dominant contender with championship-caliber, they also have a well-balanced lineup. Given the key player additions, future additions, thoughtful changes in management, new uniforms, and open-minded coaching, 76ers fans may finally have something to cheer about again. Imagine that!
Works Cited
https://www.nba.com/sixers/news/quick-facts-daryl-morey
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_career_achievements_by_James_Harden