Sixers ownership says luxury tax no obstacle to building contender
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Philadelphia 76ers managing partner Josh Harris told reporters Thursday that the franchise is prepared to exceed the NBA’s luxury-tax threshold whenever necessary to strengthen a championship roster. “The front office absolutely has the green light to go into the luxury tax,” Harris said, noting that the club has toggled in and out of tax territory in recent seasons and that arena and practice-facility investments dwarf any potential tax bill.
Bob Myers, president of sports for Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, backed Harris’ stance, saying he would not remain in his role if ownership refused to spend when a tax-heavy move could vault the team into title contention. Myers, who previously won championships while over the tax in Golden State, added, “I’m not worried about that part of the job, because if that comes up, I know what the answer will be.”
Coaching and front-office search
Harris and Myers confirmed that head coach Nick Nurse will not take part in the search for a new head of basketball operations, arguing that the coach already has “enough on his plate.” Myers said he wants an executive who will mesh with Nurse, while Harris praised the coach’s work through three seasons marked by inconsistent player availability. “Nick’s a championship coach… He’s our coach moving forward into next season,” Harris said.
Key decisions awaiting Morey’s successor
The next lead executive must address several looming issues, including the maximum-salary contracts of Joel Embiid and Paul George and the free-agent futures of Quentin Grimes, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Andre Drummond, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. PHLY Sports reported that observers are watching to see whether the incoming decision-maker will face any spending constraints similar to those that affected former president Daryl Morey.
Draft outlook
Philadelphia owns the No. 22 pick in next month’s draft. Recent mock drafts compiled by PhillyVoice project a wide range of possibilities at that spot, from wings Amari Allen (Alabama) and Allen Graves (Santa Clara) to frontcourt options Chris Cenac (Houston) and Henri Veesaar (North Carolina).
Source: Hoops Rumors
