Moving Past "The Process"

From Brett Brown's hiring in 2013 to the 2019 Eastern Conference Semifinals, The Process has made the 76ers relevant again. But is it time to move on?

In his post-game interview after the unspeakably lucky quadruple-doink shot by Kawhi, Embiid told reporters, “I don’t give a damn about the process.” And so, Sixers fans are forced to let go of the mantra that has guided the team through the last six NBA seasons. Trusting the process brought the Sixers through two last-place seasons, multiple season-ending injuries of high-profile players, all the way until the devastating finish of the Eastern Conference semis this season. The death of the Process put a special emphasis on free agency this year.

"I don't give a damn about the Process."

Since the free agency dust has (mostly) settled in Philadelphia, the Sixers have given the starting lineup a little bit of a facelift; the acquisitions of Matisse Thybulle in the draft and free agents Josh Richardson and Al Horford give the team some dimension in young talent and experience. The re-signing of Tobias Harris and Mike Scott provide perimeter threats opponents cannot afford to forget about. It’s clear that this new lineup will quickly rise as a defensive juggernaut, with the shortest wingspan on the team belonging to Zhaire Smith at 6’10”. Trying to get the ball inside against Philadelphia? Not going to happen.

Regardless of the movements of one particular “fun guy” during the rest of this free agency period, the Philadelphia 76ers will be making another run for the Finals. With the departure of players like Butler, Redick, Boban, and TJ, the #RunItBack campaign has lost its momentum. All that’s left to see is how the Sixers utilize the preseason to move beyond the Process and into this new phase of team history.

Update: Uh Ha Ha Ha

Kawhi Leonard announcing his move to the Los Angeles Clippers where he will be joined by former Thunder forward Paul George has restored balance to the NBA. Fans and analysts alike are gearing up for one of the most competitive seasons in a while. While both of LA's teams are favored to win the Finals (Clippers at +300 and Lakers at +400 according to oddsshark.com), the Sixers aren't far behind in the rankings, coming in at +800. The numbers tell the story Sixers fans are ready to believe: the roster moves that have been made this summer can help get this team to the Finals for the first time since 2001.