The Philadelphia 76ers have had a rough season and entered Friday with the fifth-worst record in the NBA—far from expectations after acquiring Paul George to join Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. With the season winding down, the team is looking ahead to a fresh start through the NBA draft and free agency. If their first-round pick falls within the top six, they will retain it.
In the meantime, the Sixers must navigate the remainder of the season despite key players being sidelined. Embiid has been out since February, while George and Maxey haven’t played since March 4. This has drawn the NBA’s attention, prompting an investigation into whether Philadelphia is violating the league’s player participation policy.
Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, ESPN’s Shams Charania mentioned that the NBA is scrutinizing multiple teams, including the 76ers, for potential violations. With the franchise having a strong incentive to lose games and retain its draft pick, the league is closely monitoring the situation.
The NBA implemented the player participation policy to discourage blatant tanking, and as seen with the Utah Jazz’s recent $100,000 fine, it is willing to enforce penalties. However, Charania noted that the Sixers’ injuries appear legitimate rather than a deliberate attempt to manipulate their record. It remains to be seen whether the NBA will reach the same conclusion.