Andre Drummond heads into 2025-26 healthier after a toe-limiting 2024-25 that kept him to 40 games and a 7.3/7.8 line. A summer of toe yoga is aimed at restoring mobility and rebound pop for Philadelphia.

His goal is simple: win. The 14th-season veteran says he let the last season down and is ready to play any role to help the Sixers reach the playoffs.

With that mindset, he aims to anchor Philly's frontline and mentor younger players, delivering the rugged rebounding and defense the Sixers need.

Philadelphia’s championship window hinges on Embiid, George, and Maxey staying healthy while Edgecombe emerges as a versatile rookie who can contribute on- and off-ball. Nurse’s praise highlights a non-stop work ethic and a quick shooting progression as the path to minutes. Embiid, Maxey, and the veteran group stress mentorship and a culture built on defense, effort, and growth. Edgecombe’s immediate impact will be measured by his ability to absorb pro reps and seize any on-court chances.

Embiid’s leadership frames Edgecombe’s ceiling, with Maxey endorsing his two-way play and drive. Drummond and Oubre Jr. add that Edgecombe brings confidence and maturity beyond his years, plus a Bahamian background that mirrors a telltale resilience. If Edgecombe translates his summer-league strides into consistent practice reps and gains coachable minutes, he could become a invaluable spark in a season that demands deep, flexible depth from a young Sixers squad.

Philadelphia nabbed V.J. Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick, betting on a 6-5 two-way wing who can contribute early as McCain heals. Edgecombe enters a veteran-heavy mix led by Embiid, George, Lowry, Gordon and Oubre, with Drummond praising his confidence.

His NBA learning curve will hinge on consistent defense, pace, and finishing in transition. If he earns minutes and can space the floor, Edgecombe could become a flexible plug-and-play piece in a playoff-caliber core.

League-wide notes touch on Randle’s Timberwolves trade talk, Lillard’s return timeline, Irving and Thompson’s tribute, and Durant’s Rockets moment, framing a season where edge-of-rotation bets carry real upside for fantasy managers.