NBA Free Agency 2019: Winners, losers, and shockers

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Shocker: Philadelphia 76ers

The 76ers always had a pivotal summer awaiting them. They pushed their chips into the middle of the table this past year to bring in Jimmy Butler and Tobias Harris, both on expiring deals. They were able to retain one of those stars (Harris) then set off a chain reaction of moves that shook up the landscape of the league.

Butler wanted to go to Miami so the two teams facilitated a sign-and-trade, with Josh Richardson returning to Philadelphia. In a step backward, JJ Reddick signed with New Orleans. Then, in perhaps the biggest surprise of the young offseason, the 76ers came out of nowhere to steal Al Horford from their division rival.

At first blush, Horford seems like a questionable fit with this group. However, Horford slotting down as the starting power forward gives them more versatility and a legit option at backup center when Joel Embiid rests or gets games off for load management.

Next. NBA Free Agency 2019 Tracker: Where did the top free agents sign?. dark

Horford’s veteran prowess regularly gave Philadelphia fits. His solidifying presence should allow them to ratchet up their defense to another level and reach higher peaks.

Now, the 76ers have the clear path to supremacy in the Atlantic Division, a top-2 seed in the East and a roster Jay Bilas would dream about. However, they did split up Tobi and Bobi, and that makes everyone irrevocably sad.

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