Sixers keep finding the same problem in different losses

Originally posted on Hoops Wire | By Sam Amico | Last updated Feb 22, 2026 4:00 AM ET

The 76ers folded early in the fourth quarter of a 126-111 road loss to the Pelicans, and by then it felt painfully familiar.

This wasn’t about one bad stretch or one cold night. It’s been the same issue for months. Philadelphia still can’t shoot well enough from three to support the way it wants to play, and Saturday was just the latest reminder.

For a while, Tyrese Maxey masked it with aggression and creativity. He attacked gaps, carried the offense, and dared defenses to react.

Lately, they have. Opponents load up, live with the kick-outs, and trust that the supporting cast won’t punish them consistently.

just your typical Tyrese bucket. pic.twitter.com/BF2vayqVKW

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) February 22, 2026

Joel Embiid changes the math when he’s healthy. He always has. Embiid, Maxey, and Paul George can cover up a lot. But the moment one of them is limited or unavailable, the structure collapses.

This roster doesn’t support a clear style without star-level problem solvers on the floor.

The issue isn’t effort or urgency. It’s fit. The Sixers don’t have enough reliable shooting to open the floor, and they don’t have an identity to fall back on when the stars can’t carry everything.

Until that changes, nights like this won’t feel random. They’ll feel expected.

This article first appeared on Hoops Wire and was syndicated with permission.

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