Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey acknowledged the team's disappointment at not acquiring any players under contract at the trade deadline for the first time in his six-year tenure, but expressed optimism about the current roster.
Morey stated that the team was looking to upgrade its rotation, but ultimately decided to keep their core intact after assessing the market and feeling that no deals were worth giving up valuable assets for. He emphasized the growth of Joel Embiid, the emergence of Tyrese Maxey, and the contributions from Kelly Oubre Jr., Andre Drummond, and Adem Bona.
Regarding Paul George's 25-game suspension, Morey said he was disappointed but expressed confidence that George would return and continue to be a key contributor. He highlighted George's importance on defense and his ability to provide shooting from outside.
The team's lack of guard depth is an area where they could potentially add reinforcements in the buyout market or through free agency. Morey acknowledged this concern, citing Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe as examples of players who have stepped up to fill gaps.
In terms of roster construction, Morey mentioned that the Sixers have two open spots and are seeking a balance between adding key contributors and maintaining depth. He expressed confidence in their current core and credited head coach Nick Nurse for adjusting his rotations to optimize player use.
The team's defense was highlighted as an area where they can improve with George's return. The 76ers' protocol for players taking medications or substances is unknown, but Morey stated that the team has procedures in place to ensure compliance with league policies.
Morey did not provide details on potential free agent signings or roster moves beyond their current core, which remains intact despite the lack of additions at the trade deadline.
Morey stated that the team was looking to upgrade its rotation, but ultimately decided to keep their core intact after assessing the market and feeling that no deals were worth giving up valuable assets for. He emphasized the growth of Joel Embiid, the emergence of Tyrese Maxey, and the contributions from Kelly Oubre Jr., Andre Drummond, and Adem Bona.
Regarding Paul George's 25-game suspension, Morey said he was disappointed but expressed confidence that George would return and continue to be a key contributor. He highlighted George's importance on defense and his ability to provide shooting from outside.
The team's lack of guard depth is an area where they could potentially add reinforcements in the buyout market or through free agency. Morey acknowledged this concern, citing Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe as examples of players who have stepped up to fill gaps.
In terms of roster construction, Morey mentioned that the Sixers have two open spots and are seeking a balance between adding key contributors and maintaining depth. He expressed confidence in their current core and credited head coach Nick Nurse for adjusting his rotations to optimize player use.
The team's defense was highlighted as an area where they can improve with George's return. The 76ers' protocol for players taking medications or substances is unknown, but Morey stated that the team has procedures in place to ensure compliance with league policies.
Morey did not provide details on potential free agent signings or roster moves beyond their current core, which remains intact despite the lack of additions at the trade deadline.