The Philadelphia 76ers hit a new low Monday night with their eighth consecutive loss - a 142-110 demolition by the Chicago Bulls that exposed fundamental flaws in the struggling franchise. Paul George, the team's marquee offseason signing, delivered a blistering assessment:
'We're showing no signs of a team that will compete. Forget championship habits - we don't even have playoff-contending habits right now.'
The historic losing streak coincides with Joel Embiid's extended absence due to left knee complications. The 2023 MVP has missed 38 games this season, leaving Philadelphia's $212 million roster rudderless:
- 20-37 record (worst in Eastern Conference)
- 1-9 February collapse
- 7-8 when Embiid/George/Maxey start together
Coach Nick Nurse admitted frustration with the team's defensive lapses and lack of urgency. 'We need more effort, more pride,' George emphasized. 'It's baffling how easily we surrender layups.'
Front office decisions now face scrutiny, particularly Embiid's $193 million extension and the looming threat of losing their 2024 first-round pick to Oklahoma City if it falls outside the top six. With playoff odds at 4.2% per Basketball Reference, strategic shutdowns appear inevitable.
As Philadelphia prepares for Wednesday's matchup against the surging Knicks, fundamental questions persist about roster construction, medical management, and organizational direction. 'Everybody needs to look in the mirror,' Nurse stated - a sentiment echoing through the Wells Fargo Center's emptying corridors.
