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Not only would James draw even more eyeballs to the 76ers for the 2026-2027 NBA season, but he would legitimately boost the starting five at a highly valuable cost. Remember, James just had an All-Star season. Getting him at the minimum is a massive opportunity.
But even without LeBron, the Sixers were still graded with an "A" for their offseason, according to CBS Sports' Sam Quinn.
After making one draft selection, a handful of non-max signings, and a shocking blockbuster deal with a division rival, the Sixers got "better, younger and deeper at price points that seem almost unfathomable," as Quinn stated.
However, on paper, it is one thing. Offseason grades coming with disclaimers are a must. And the valid concerns are certainly worth keeping in mind ahead of an exciting season.
Know the risks of the 2026-2027 Sixers roster
Credit to Quinn for pointing them out. Labaron Philon Jr. was a steal out of Alabama at No. 22 for Philadelphia, according to most analysts. Why did he fall? Is it fool's gold for Philly, or will the Sixers make the league look silly? They did it once with Tyrese Maxey, so here's to hoping they make out like bandits once again.
Dean Wade was the Sixers' first notable signing of the offseason. He has injury concerns, a lack of full-time starting experience, and struggles to consistently contribute on the offensive end. Considering what he's about to get paid, the Sixers are going to want more than 60 games and 25 minutes per night.
As for the high-profile move--the trade for Jaylen Brown--that one became a concern when the follow-up hit pieces started rolling out. "Brown was presumably traded over concerns both about his own contract and analytics that indicate he wasn't nearly as good last season as his accolades suggest," Quinn wrote.
Brown has been a polarizing player for a while. For anyone to suggest that his fourth-straight All-Star season, where he helped the Celtics secure a 56-26 record (second in the Eastern Conference) in what was supposed to be a down year, wasn't all that impactful just seems to have it out for the guy.
There are valid concerns about Brown's role with the team. That won't be overlooked as the season plays out.
For now, the Sixers can feel good about their first offseason under the new President of Basketball Operations, Mike Gansey. However, that "A" could look very different by midterms.
Today's best reads
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This article was originally published on thesixersense.com as 76ers' near-perfect NBA offseason comes with major disclaimers.
