4. Philadelphia 76ers
While losing a player of Jimmy Butler‘s caliber is never good, it has to be said, the Philadelphia 76ers got better this offseason.
With Butler now in Miami, the 76ers were able to land Josh Richardson in return. While Richardson isn’t Jimmy Butler, he is a player that will understand his role and will not cause any problems with the likes of Embiid and Simmons like Butler did.
Richardson offers consistent shooting and is a decent defender. While he was asked to be a No. 1 option with Miami, he will most definitely not be asked to do that in Philly. With his ability to play shooting guard and small forward, he will offer a valuable piece to the 76ers.
The 76ers were also able to add Al Horford. Horford is easily one of the NBA’s best complementary players. With Horford, you get a player who can do a bit of everything. He can pass, shoot, rebound and defend all while offering a calming leadership presence to whatever team he is on.
With Horford now playing next to Joel Embiid, you might be able to see Embiid play with more poise and not force things as much. If Embiid can listen and learn he can leap to an MVP level.
With Horford, Richardson, Harris, and Embiid on the roster, this takes the onus off of Ben Simmons to shoot the ball. While he seems to be making strides in this regard during the offseason, it simply isn’t his game at this point in his career.
If the newly put together Philadelphia 76ers can click on all cylinders they are going to push the Milwaukee Bucks to the brink in the Eastern Conference. Expect a true battle between these two teams this season.
It is going to make for some must watch T.V.