Philadelphia 76ers resident of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Sixers in no rush to add another star to their roster

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 12/27/23

The Philadelphia 76ers lost one of their star players when James Harden forced his way out of town. The veteran guard was supposed to be the second star alongside Joel Embiid to help lead the team to a championship. However, following his departure, Tyrese Maxey has stepped up in a big way and is looking like a star of the future.

As such, the Sixers' desire to delve into the trade market for another big name has reportedly waned in recent weeks. The duo of Embiid and Maxey has helped the Sixers earn a top-three seeding in the Eastern Conference. Nick Nurse's heavy emphasis on ball movement has also seen multiple role players begin to make a consistent impact.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, who was speaking on a recent episode of "NBA Countdown," the Sixers will likely avoid making a move for a star talent this season.

“When (the Sixers) made the James Harden trade with the Clippers, there was a sense they may have to…at the trade deadline, find a star player to be able to keep up with Boston and Milwaukee in the East. They’re showing with this group they can do it maybe without a third star, maybe (do) something around the edges."

Maxey has played in 28 games for the Sixers this season. He's averaging 25.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 6.7 assists per game, shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range. Given his production and impact this season, Maxey could earn himself his first All-Star selection, which would prove that he's a star talent the Sixers can pair with Embiid long-term.

Tobias Harris has often been viewed as the third star for Philadelphia. However, he's currently in the final year of his five-year $180 million deal and will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer. As such, the Sixers could view free agency as another avenue to potentially add a fresh star to their rotation.

Still, whoever Philadelphia brings in will likely be playing a tertiary role as the coaching staff continues to develop Maxey into one of the best guards in the Eastern Conference.

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