The Philadelphia 76ers concluded a challenging 2024-25 season with a disappointing 24-58 record, marking their first playoff absence since 2016-17. Amidst a wave of injuries and roster turmoil, including an NBA record of 53 starting lineups, the team showcased the development of rookie Adem Bona, selected 41st overall in the draft. Bona emerged as a defensive anchor, proving effective in both rim protection and perimeter defense.

Throughout the season, he averaged 15.6 minutes per game, contributing significantly to the team's interior defense. His standout performance was a remarkable 28-point game against the Milwaukee Bucks, where he demonstrated his scoring ability and defensive prowess against superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite his offensive limitations, Bona's quick adaptation and growth as a shot-blocker and screener earned him an impressive final grade of A-minus for his rookie campaign.

The Philadelphia 76ers faced a disappointing 2024-25 season, marked by a focus on developing younger players like Adem Bona and Justin Edwards. Kyle Lowry, a veteran limited by injury, praised the growth opportunities these rookies received through increased playing time. Bona averaged 5.8 points and 4.2 rebounds, while Edwards made a stronger impact with 10.1 points and a 36.3% three-point shooting rate.

Lowry emphasized the importance of experience for these young players, noting that gaining real NBA minutes in a challenging season could accelerate their development. As Lowry reflects on his own journey and the learning curve of adapting to the league, he finds satisfaction in mentoring the younger players. With Bona and Edwards set to enter their second seasons, they are positioned to leverage the lessons learned from this year into future success.

Jared McCain of the Philadelphia 76ers is on the mend following meniscus surgery that prematurely ended his rookie season after just 23 games, where he averaged 15.3 points and 2.6 assists. As he progresses through recovery, McCain shared that he’s starting to jump without pain, a positive sign for his return. This offseason, his focus is solely on regaining his health and getting back on the court.

Throughout his time off, McCain has learned from seasoned players like Kyle Lowry and Tyrese Maxey, who have been instrumental in his development by offering guidance and insights from the sidelines. He also acknowledged the impact of teammate Jared Butler, particularly in running the offense and executing pick-and-roll situations effectively. McCain's eagerness to return reflects his confidence in his ability to contribute significantly to the team.

The waiver wire is crucial in fantasy basketball, offering opportunities to pick up players who can significantly impact your team. This season, several players with an ADP outside the top 130 emerged as valuable assets. Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks, with a preseason ADP of 136, showcased remarkable talent, ranking 14th overall with averages of 14.1 points and a historic 229 steals. Christian Braun, starting for the Denver Nuggets, improved throughout the season, finishing with 15.4 points per game and a final month rank of 41.

Kelly Oubre of the Philadelphia 76ers had a rollercoaster season, affected by injuries but managing a solid 15.1 points when healthy. Jaden McDaniels displayed flashes of brilliance for the Minnesota Timberwolves, while Tari Eason from the Houston Rockets began slowly but became a potential draft target next season. Adem Bona and Toumani Camara both found their footing late in the season, suggesting they could be valuable picks as well.