Eastern Conference teams, such as the Washington Wizards and the Charlotte Hornets, performed well at the 2025 NBA Draft. However, the Philadelphia 76ers arguably were its biggest winners. They were able to select in the top three, in which they drafted VJ Edgecombe. Not only that, but the Sixers also possessed an early second-rounder, which they used to draft Johni Broome. Undoubtedly, both demonstrated solid moments during their time at Summer League. Both players possess the skills and upside to be part of Philadelphia’s future and fit well into their current roster. Let’s dive into the three reasons why the Philadelphia 76ers won the 2025 NBA Draft.
3 Reasons Why The Philadelphia 76ers Won The 2025 NBA Draft
#1: Defense, Defense, Defense
The Sixers were unquestionably one of the worst defensive teams this past season, ranking 26th in the league. With that in mind, one of the reasons they won the draft is the defensive personnel they acquired there. Specifically, both Edgecombe and Broome were high-level defensive prospects in college at the guard and center positions. Considering that the Sixers need more perimeter defense at the guard position, taking the athletic Baylor guard will pay off immensely. Neither Tyrese Maxey nor Jared McCain is good defensively, and both are small guards, meaning that Edgecombe’s defensive abilities and size complement them as he can be thrown at bigger guards and wings.
As for Broome, the Sixers adding another defensive center for depth behind Joel Embiid is also the right idea for them. Broome has proven himself in college as an excellent rim protector who has the strength to handle centers in the post. He has also shown that he knows exactly where he needs to be on defense and can be deployed in various defensive coverages.
#2: Maxey Got a Partner
As mentioned before, Edgecombe’s skills allow him to be a perfect backcourt partner for Maxey. Due to that, getting a true partner for Maxey, both now and into the future, is another reason why the Sixers won the draft. Edgecombe’s athleticism, defense, and off-ball offensive capabilities pair well with Maxey’s more on-ball offensive attack. Not only is Edgecombe an off-ball threat from distance, but his cutting is also a major concern. Unquestionably, Maxey has the vision and passing skills to find Edgecombe, making them a dangerous pairing. Maxey can handle more on-ball responsibility as Edgecombe grows into a better offensive player with the ball in his hands. On the defensive end, Edgecombe can take the heat off of Maxey, as he can handle more difficult defensive assignments due to his size and athleticism. Overall, the two guards have the necessary skills to complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
#3: Prioritizing Center Depth
Given the major concerns around Embiid’s health, prioritizing center depth is another reason why they won the draft. Specifically, getting Broome in the second round is an excellent move by the Sixers. Broome has the skills and experience to be an immediate contributor to Philadelphia’s rotation. He offers a different skill set from Adem Bona, as he is far more advanced offensively. Broome is a good finisher at the rim, has shown some potential as a shooter, and has solid passing ability. Should Embiid miss an extended number of games, the Sixers have a competent backup in Broome.
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