The 2025-26 season is quickly approaching for the Philadelphia 76ers as they look to put a miserable 24-58 season behind them. The Sixers will hope for better health in the coming season as their Big 3 of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey were only able to play a grand total of 18 games together–finishing only 15 in the 2024-25 season.
It’s now time to look ahead to the new season and time to break down each position for the Sixers in an effort to preview what the season might look like. Sixers Wire will continue with the small forwards now and take a look at what the Sixers bring to the table at the position:
Starter: Quentin Grimes (currently unsigned, but likely to return)
Grimes, who remains unsigned, played well for the Sixers after the trade acquisition from the Dallas Mavericks. He averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting 46.9% overall and 37.3% from deep in 28 games. He is currently a restricted free agent and is widely believed to return to Philadelphia. His shooting ability will be important for the Sixers on the offensive end.
Speaking of that shooting ability, that is likely to be the reason why he will be in the starting lineup should he return. The Sixers will need players who can shoot the basketball, not be afraid to take those shots, and continue to move forward and space the floor on the offensive end. That is why Grimes will likely get this look at the small forward spot in coach Nick Nurse’s lineup. He showed he can produce being in the No. 1 role and now he must be able to produce back as a role player.
Depth behind Grimes
Behind Grimes, the Sixers can turn to Kelly Oubre Jr. who is set to return and give the Sixers a jack of all trades. He can score in isolation, can move off the ball, and make an impact on the defensive end as well as on the glass. He is going to be a key piece–and also could be a tradeable asset to create more cap space for a Grimes reunion. Then, there’s Justin Edwards who is entering his second season and will give Philadelphia a 3-and-D option for the bench unit. He was terrific as an undrafted rookie and the Sixers must find consistent minutes for him.