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What the Sixers’ future could look like after Joel Embiid
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

What the Sixers’ future could look like after Joel Embiid

The Philadelphia 76ers might be facing a turning point sooner than expected. 

While Joel Embiid remains one of the league’s most dominant forces when healthy, recent comments from the Philadelphia Inquirer's Keith Pompey have added a new layer of uncertainty about his long-term future.

Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Pompey hinted at something bigger looming in the background, saying that Embiid "may know that the end is near" although "it may not be this season."

It was a subtle but powerful statement — one that could shift the entire trajectory of the franchise if it turns out to be true. Because whether it’s his health, his age or just a sense of timing, Embiid’s potential exit would leave a massive void in Philadelphia.

And it’s fair to wonder: Are the Sixers already preparing for life after him?

This summer, Philadelphia used its lottery pick to select VJ Edgecombe, a high-upside wing with a strong defensive base, shot-creation potential and the kind of physical tools that scream long-term investment. At just 19 years old, Edgecombe might not be ready to contribute heavily right away, but his presence suggests a franchise looking to stockpile perimeter talent for the next era.

The Sixers also expect to bring back Jared McCain at full strength. McCain was one of the most impressive rookies early last season before going down with a foot injury that derailed his Rookie of the Year campaign. His return gives Philadelphia another scoring guard with real leadership upside, especially in a system where Embiid may no longer dominate touches.

Add in guard  Tyrese Maxey, who just signed his five-year max extension, and there’s a young trio brewing that could define the post-Embiid Sixers: Edgecombe, McCain and Maxey. None of them play center. None of them replicate what Embiid does. But they might just be the beginning of a new identity — one built around pace, perimeter play and depth rather than a singular MVP anchor.

Still, it’s a tall order. Embiid averaged 34.7 points and 11 rebounds per game in 39 outings in 2023-24, and he remains the emotional centerpiece of the team. He’s the guy who made “The Process” meaningful, who delivered MVP-level production and who led Philly through countless playoff runs — most of them frustrating, but all built around him.

Replacing that kind of presence isn’t just about on-court production. It’s about leadership, tone and what a franchise stands for. That’s why the Sixers’ front office might not be rushing to find the next Embiid, but instead quietly shifting toward a more dynamic, versatile team that can adapt in a league that no longer revolves around dominant big men.

Of course, none of this means Embiid is done. He’s still under contract through at least the next several years, and if healthy, there’s no reason to doubt he can anchor another playoff run — or two. But if the end is near, the signs are starting to show. And for the first time in years, Philadelphia may be looking ahead without its centerpiece.

For a franchise that once trusted the process, a new one might already be in motion.

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