The 2024-25 season marked a difficult chapter for the Philadelphia 76ers, concluding with a disappointing 24-58 record and their first playoff miss since the 2016-17 season. Injuries plagued the roster, forcing the team to utilize a staggering 30 players and set an NBA record with 53 different starting lineups. Veteran guard Eric Gordon, brought in during the offseason, was expected to provide scoring and shooting. However, he only managed to play 39 games, leading to concerns about his future with the team.

Despite a slow start to the season, where he struggled with his shooting percentage, Gordon rebounded significantly in January before undergoing wrist surgery that sidelined him for the remainder of the year. His performance showcased his potential as an elite shooter, particularly evident in a 52.6% shooting rate from beyond the arc for 17 games. His grade for the season reflects the impact of injuries and the uncertainty surrounding his role going forward.

The Philadelphia 76ers face the Washington Wizards on the road, concluding a brief two-game trip. The season has been challenging, and the Sixers aim to finish strong despite multiple injuries. Tyrese Maxey will miss another game due to a right finger sprain, his last appearance dating back to March 3. Joel Embiid, Paul George, Eric Gordon, and Jared McCain are also sidelined, while Andre Drummond and Kelly Oubre Jr. are out as well. Justin Edwards is questionable with a rib contusion. The game's tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT at Capital One Arena.

The Philadelphia 76ers are facing a challenging fifth game of their road trip against the Atlanta Hawks, seeking to end a three-game losing streak. Tyrese Maxey, who hasn't played since March 3 due to a lower back and finger sprain, will miss this matchup alongside teammates Joel Embiid, Paul George, Eric Gordon, and Jared McCain, all out for the season. Andre Drummond and Kelly Oubre Jr. continue to be sidelined, while Lonnie Walker IV, returning from a concussion, will not participate due to minor headaches. The team's injury woes are significant as they head into this crucial game.

The Philadelphia 76ers find themselves at a crossroads, suffering a dismal nine-game losing streak, with the team struggling at 3.5 games away from even the play-in tournament. With a record among the league's worst, the Sixers face tough decisions moving forward, especially regarding Joel Embiid's chronic knee issue. The team has a top-six protected first-round pick owed to Oklahoma City, and current odds offer a 43.4% chance of retaining it, which is motivating the franchise to potentially shift focus towards the future.

Embiid's condition remains a significant concern, as he battles pain and swelling, raising questions about the necessity of further surgery. Despite the team’s medical staff suggesting surgery isn't required, Embiid himself has expressed doubts. Meanwhile, Eric Gordon has undergone wrist surgery, ruling him out for the season, further indicating that the 76ers might be throwing in the towel this year.

The Philadelphia 76ers are not planning to abandon the season despite their current nine-game losing streak and a 20-38 record. Joel Embiid's situation remains uncertain as he missed two games and is contemplating further knee surgery after consulting with multiple doctors. Coach Nick Nurse confirmed that Embiid underwent tests and stated the organization isn't ready to shut him down. Eric Gordon's recent wrist surgery has sidelined him for at least three months, effectively ending his season. The Sixers are still trying to position themselves for a playoff push, sitting just 2.5 games behind the Chicago Bulls for the final play-in spot.

With 24 games left, the Sixers must decide whether to pursue the playoffs or consider a more strategic approach, potentially benefiting from a high draft pick. Team president Daryl Morey continues to emphasize Embiid's value as the franchise cornerstone, indicating a commitment to building around him. The effectiveness of their strategy hinges on Embiid's recovery and ability to return to form amidst a challenging situation.