Why 76ers' New Superteam Is Different From Daryl Morey’s

The Philadelphia 76ers went through a lot to get this roster where they wanted. But could they have fallen into the same trap like they did a few seasons ago? The answer here is no.

Back when Daryl Morey was the general manager, he shelled out millions to get all the big names on the roster and, as we all saw, it didn’t work out too well for them. They added Paul George after having James Harden, and neither player was capable of changing their fate. Now, Morey is gone, and so are all of his financial burdens.

We’re now in a new era. The Mike Gansey era has brought in some exceptional pieces this season. Let’s start with bringing in Nick Nurse. It's understood that this wasn’t done last season, but he’s a key first step for what has been built for this season. Next was the trade for Jaylen Brown, which was followed by bench signings of Dean Wade. Remember, LeBron James wasn’t brought in until after this because he wasn’t on their radar originally. When James’ signing became official, there were no words to be said; this was, in fact, the best offseason that the 76ers could have hoped for. 

It’s easy to sense a bit of deja vu when you hear big names once again being announced. The biggest difference is Gansey didn’t have to break the bank to make it happen. There were no supermax deals made to make this happen.  Brown already signed his supermax deal back in 2023, so that nullifies that idea. James signed a veteran minimum, and they still had money left to add Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. 

The fact of the matter is when Morey made his decisions, he was left with nothing to replenish the bench. Gansey made sure to have guys in reserve so that the starters don’t burn themselves out and be susceptible to injuries. While the similarities between the two GMs are the signings of ball-dominant players, Gansey’s players have skillsets that don’t contradict the team around them.

Even more, the starting lineups have vastly different looks to them. In the past, it revolved around Joel Embiid. This season, Embiid may be the first option, but it doesn't make him the player that gets the team going. That job will fall on James or Brown. Which makes everything easier for a guy like Embiid. This team is going to score a large number of points, and it’s going to be because of how this team was put together. 

Gansey will receive pats on the back, but it won’t be until this team proves it’s worth more than a second round exit.