The 2024-25 Philadelphia 76ers season was supposed to be a reset year. Instead, it became one to forget.
After finishing the previous campaign at a respectable 47-35, Philadelphia stumbled to a 24-58 record under second-year head coach Nick Nurse, landing fifth in the Atlantic Division and 13th in the Eastern Conference.
Enter Kevin Durant, whose uncertain future in Phoenix has dominated headlines since the Suns’ midseason collapse.
While Boston, San Antonio and Philadelphia have all headlined Durant trade rumors, arguably none ignited more buzz than the 76ers.
That is, until Wednesday, when ESPN and HoopsHype insider Marc Stein dashed those hopes.
"When I've checked out that scenario, it's been strongly debunked to me. I do not think Philly is in the market for trying to pursue Kevin Durant. So yeah, I don't foresee the Sixers emerging as a candidate there, "Stein told the PHNX Sports podcast.
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Injuries crippled the 76ers roster last season.
Joel Embiid missed significant time with knee issues, Paul George was shut down in March after adductor and knee troubles, and rising star Tyrese Maxey was lost for the season in early April due to a finger tendon injury, ending what had been a career-high 26.3 PPG, 6.1 APG campaign.
Midseason moves failed to turn the tide. In February, Philadelphia shipped out Caleb Martin for Quentin Grimes and a second-round pick and also acquired guard Jared Butler in a four-team deal.
By season’s end, whispers of blockbuster moves fueled NBA trade rumors, headlined by Durant, a 15-time All-Star, league MVP in 2014, NBA champion in 2017 and 2018, four-time scoring leader and two-time Finals MVP.
Looking ahead to 2025-26, Philadelphia is at a pivotal crossroads, even more so now that Durant is reportedly off the table.