The Philadelphia 76ers were swept 4-0 by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, ending their playoff run without reaching the conference finals for the first time since 2001. Over the past nine seasons, the 76ers have made the playoffs eight times, only to be eliminated in the first round twice and the second round six times.
According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, the 76ers’ ownership is set to evaluate the leadership of General Manager and head coach Nick Nurse following the disappointing exit. Meanwhile, tensions have flared between star center Joel Embiid and the front office. Jones revealed two key sources of friction:
1. Before the trade deadline, Embiid urged the front office not to make moves solely to avoid the luxury tax, but they traded Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder anyway.
2. During the final stretch of the regular season, despite Embiid being cleared to play, the team forced him to rest.
On February 5, the 76ers sent McCain to the Thunder in a one-for-four deal, receiving a 2026 first-round pick (the 22nd overall pick via Houston) and three second-round picks. The move was widely criticized as a cost-cutting measure rather than an effort to acquire immediate help. Several other 76ers players also voiced displeasure, noting that the team traded away a promising young talent without bringing back any win-now pieces.
McCain has since thrived in Oklahoma City, averaging 11 points and 1 assist on 63.2% shooting from the field and an incredible 81.8% from three-point range over 14.1 minutes per game in the Western Conference semifinals against the Lakers. His emergence has only fueled Embiid’s frustration, as the 76ers were swept while McCain delivers clutch performances elsewhere.
McCain suffered a lateral meniscus tear in his left knee last season, playing just 23 games before being ruled out. He had topped the rookie ladder before the injury. Upon his return this season, Philadelphia shifted focus to Adem Bona, leaving McCain with limited minutes. His trade was seen as inevitable, but the timing and return have drawn heavy criticism.
The internal strife largely stems from the team’s failure to advance deep into the playoffs. With Embiid owed $190 million over the next three years (through 2029), trading him would be difficult. When asked about the team’s future this summer, Embiid said, “I don’t know who will stay. I don’t even know if I’ll be here.”
One question remains: Can the 76ers turn things around next season?