#2 Joel Embiid's absence

Joel Embiid is an absolute force in the paint and has been an anchor for the Philadelphia 76ers team at both ends of the court for the last four years.

However, he was unavailable for the first two years of his career due to injury. and has constantly been sidelined in his playing years. The most he has featured in a season for the 76ers was 64 games, which came during the 2018-19 campaign.
Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.
Last season, the Philadelphia 76ers had a 39-12 record with Embiid on the floor and went 10-11 without him. That was even when they had another force of nature in Dwight Howard.
With Howard leaving to re-join the LA Lakers, the Philadelphia 76ers went in search of another big man. Fortunately, Andre Drummond was a free agent following his stint with the Lakers, and was courted by the Sixers.
Nevertheless, their struggles could continue without Embiid on the court. The Philadelphia 76ers will look to redeem themselves in the 2021-22 NBA season following a disappointing second-round exit against the Atlanta Hawks in the 2021 playoffs. They would be rather unlucky if they have to play a playoff series without Embiid.
#3 The Philadelphia 76ers do not take good care of the ball

Ranked 21st after averaging 14.4 turnovers per game, it is glaring why this should be a major concern for the Philadelphia 76ers. Although teams have failed to punish them more often because of their defensive efforts, things might change in the 2021-22 NBA season.
Simmons was a huge factor in their transition defense, so his absence could open things up for opposing offenses. He has been exceptional running the floor for the Philadelphia 76ers and suppressing fast-break opportunities.
Last season, the 76ers finished second in defensive rating. So a drop is anticipated if they lose their primary defender. If the 76ers turn the ball over as many times as they did last season, they will likely concede more points than they did last campaign.
76ers Fan? Check out the latest Philadelphia 76ers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.