When the 2016 NBA offseason began, new Sixers General Manager Bryan Colangelo faced a daunting task. He took over a team that ended the previous season with a dismal 10-72 record, plagued by controversies and missteps. With the departure of his predecessor, Sam Hinkie, Colangelo was entrusted with the responsibility of steering the team in a new direction – one that did not involve constant losing or public embarrassment.
Despite the challenges he faced, Colangelo found himself in a favorable position. He inherited the top overall pick in the NBA Draft, along with two additional first-round picks. Thanks to the financial prudence of Hinkie, Colangelo also had a significant amount of financial flexibility at his disposal.
As we look back at the transformative 2016 offseason for the Sixers, it’s clear that Colangelo had the opportunity to make significant changes that could shape the team’s future.
NBA Draft
The Sixers’ path in the NBA Draft was clear: select LSU standout Ben Simmons with the first overall pick and build around his dynamic talents. Meanwhile, the stage was set for the Los Angeles Lakers to choose Duke’s Brandon Ingram at No. 2.
However, the draft took an intriguing turn at No. 3 when the Boston Celtics found themselves fielding offers from Colangelo, who was eager to make a splash. The Sixers’ proposed trade package, which included Nerlens Noel, draft picks, and Robert Covington, was substantial.
Ultimately, the Celtics declined the offer and selected Jaylen Brown, a decision that would prove fruitful for both teams in the long run. The Sixers, meanwhile, took chances on international talents like Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot and Furkan Korkmaz in the later rounds.
Free agency
Colangelo utilized the team’s cap space to sign veterans like Gerald Henderson, Sergio Rodríguez, and Jerryd Bayless in an effort to bolster the young roster. While some of these deals proved to be less than ideal, they did not hinder the team’s future flexibility.
The offseason also saw the Sixers pursue established NBA players like Harrison Barnes, Manu Ginóbili, and Jamal Crawford, although they ultimately missed out on these targets.
Results
The 2016-17 season saw the Sixers finish with a 28-54 record, showing signs of progress despite some missed opportunities in the offseason. Embiid emerged as a future superstar, while players like Šarić and Covington made significant strides.
Looking back, Colangelo’s moves during the offseason may not have been perfect, but they set the stage for a promising future for the Sixers. As the team continued to grow and evolve, it became clear that the 2016 offseason was a turning point in their journey back to relevance.
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