Some starting line-ups are built to win games. Philadelphia’s projected five has been assembled to swallow the entire NBA conversation.
There are champions, scorers, a former MVP, one of basketball’s most exciting young guards and a rising star who already looks comfortable under the brightest lights. Wherever the 76ers go this season, noise will follow.
The obvious lure: LeBron James
James remains the headline attraction across the NBA.
He is entering the deepest chapter of an extraordinary career, but his influence extends beyond scoring. The 41-year-old averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds last season, according to NBA.com.
Placed alongside this much attacking talent, James would not need to dominate every possession. He could become Philadelphia’s conductor, choosing when to accelerate and when to let the younger legs fly.
The side plot: Jaylen Brown
Brown arriving from Boston adds spice before a ball is even bounced.
The former NBA Finals MVP averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists last season. He brings championship experience, physical defence and the ability to batter his way towards the basket when carefully drawn plays begin to fray.
The irresistible: Tyrese Maxey
Then comes the human fast-forward button.
Maxey produced 28.3 points and 6.6 assists per game, while playing 38 minutes a night. His speed stretches defences until seams become open roads. Now 25, he is no longer Philadelphia’s promising sidekick. He is one of its central stars.
The Paint Emperor: Joel Embiid
Everything still revolves around Embiid’s availability.
When healthy, the 7ft centre remains one of basketball’s most destructive match-ups. He averaged 24 points, 7.3 rebounds and 5.4 assists across his limited appearances last season. With James and Maxey creating, Embiid should receive the ball in increasingly uncomfortable positions for opposing defences.
The young Skywalker: VJ Edgecombe
Edgecombe supplies the bounce, fearlessness and unknown ceiling.
The 20-year-old averaged 16 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.4 steals during his rookie campaign. He also made two three-pointers per game, proving he is more than an explosive athlete.
Philadelphia’s depth makes the picture even more intriguing. Anfernee Simons offers instant scoring, while Justin Edwards, Dean Wade and Trendon Watford provide size across the forward positions, with Adem Bona and Ariel Hukporti offering cover behind Embiid.
The questions are enormous. So is the talent.
No starting five will be watched more closely this season, so follow the NBA news here.
