The Philadelphia 76ers are hopeful about their 2025 NBA Draft prospects, particularly with a 64% chance of retaining their fifth overall pick following a dismal 24-58 season. Their lottery fate will be determined on May 12, but if they keep their pick, the team may look to bolster their backcourt with Tre Johnson, a standout scorer from Texas. Johnson, touted as the best prospect from Texas since Kevin Durant, averaged 19.9 points and shot nearly 40% from three-point range in his freshman year.

His skills as a versatile scorer, capable of taking defenders off the dribble and shooting from deep, make him a fitting complement to current guards Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain. If selected, Johnson could inject immediate offensive talent, fitting seamlessly into the Sixers' future plans.

The Philadelphia 76ers wrapped up a challenging 2024-25 season, finishing with a disappointing 24-58 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2017. This year was marked by significant injuries and player rotations, leading the team to utilize an NBA record 53 different starting lineups. Among the roster, Jeff Dowtin Jr., a two-way guard, emerged as a reliable presence off the bench, contributing solid ball-handling skills and offensive support when called upon.

Dowtin logged a career-high 41 games, showcasing his ability to adapt under pressure. He averaged 12.8 points per game in March and 16.0 points in April, with standout performances including a career-best 30-point game against the Washington Wizards. His shooting prowess, particularly a 50% accuracy from beyond the arc, helped maintain team competitiveness during a tumultuous season. Dowtin's future remains uncertain as he transitions out of his two-way contract, but his contribution in a year filled with challenges earned him a solid B-plus grade.

As the Philadelphia 76ers head into the offseason, coach Nick Nurse is eyeing the potential for three-guard lineups, a strategy that could reshape their offense. With Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and possibly Quentin Grimes in the fold, the Sixers boast versatility and scoring power. Maxey and McCain have already established themselves, while Grimes, who averaged 21.9 points in 28 games post-trade, is making a strong case for inclusion. Nurse believes that all three players can share ball-handling duties, enhancing their offensive capabilities.

This approach could allow the Sixers to play small, adding a dynamic edge to their game. Grimes' competitiveness and ability to find his shots make him a vital asset in this plan. Nurse's emphasis on maximizing the guards’ ball-handling roles reflects his commitment to adapting the lineup for success. As the team looks to rebound from a disappointing previous season, the potential shift toward smaller lineups promises to open up new avenues for the Sixers' offense.