Sixers Offseason Moves: Nurse Praises Gansey for Adding Wade and Simons
The Philadelphia 76ers are 6-1 after adding Dean Wade and Anfernee Simons in free agency, strengthening a roster plagued by injury concerns.
By Jenna Mitchell ·
General manager Mike Gansey spent the summer adding depth to the Philadelphia 76ers roster. He signed Dean Wade and Anfernee Simons during free agency. The moves were designed to support a core group that relies heavily on aging stars. The team has started the season with a 6-1 record.
Head coach Nick Nurse said the additions were critical for the squad’s survival. He noted that the roster is fragile due to the physical demands on its primary players. Joel Embiid was listed as questionable for the Monday game against the Chicago Bulls due to a right foot plantar fascia issue. Embiid warmed up and started the game.
Nurse explained that the team must manage the minutes for its star players. LeBron James is approaching his 42nd birthday and requires regular rest. Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, and VJ Edgecombe are accumulating high minute totals. This workload increases the risk of minor injuries and fatigue throughout the 82-game schedule.
The new acquisitions fill specific tactical needs identified by the coaching staff. Wade provides versatility at the forward position. He can space the floor, rebound, and switch defenders. Simons brings shooting ability and speed as a guard. Nurse stated that the team needed these specific skills to balance the lineup.
Nurse told the front office to secure both players when their names emerged in the market. He described them as much-needed pieces that fit the team’s positional requirements. Wade’s ability to guard and rebound addresses a key weakness. Simons operates as a speed shooter who does not require extensive space to create shots.
Simons has focused on improving his defensive effort with the Sixers. Nurse said Simons is an incredible athlete with the tools to play strong defense. The coach discussed expectations with Simons during the hiring process. Simons stated that he can play good defense, and the team expects him to do so when key guards are on the floor.
The Sixers have won their first seven games with a mix of close contests and decisive victories. The team has emphasized defense and rebounding in these wins. These areas of play are considered essential for maintaining a competitive record over the long term. The current depth allows the team to withstand injuries to key starters.
Dominick Barlow remains sidelined due to a lower back stress injury. Nurse reported that Barlow has been on the court more recently. He has an appointment scheduled for Tuesday to assess his recovery progress. Embiid’s inclusion in the starting lineup on Monday signaled a return to full availability for the team's primary center.
