This is about making chess moves that matter to a best-of-seven series. The Bucks made theirs. Now, instead of succumbing to the chaos, the Sixers have to react.
The regular-season wins get old when the season ends at the exact same time every year, but that doesn't mean there aren't some subplots for those religious fans who will glue their eyes to their screens for all 82 games to be intrigued by.
Smith stood out in the NBA's Salt Lake City and Las Vegas summer leagues, showing that he was the most ready to contribute of the Sixers' two-way signings on draft night.
The Sixers' stance on Maxey has been remarkably consistent throughout the offseason - they view him as a cornerstone of their future. They don't just talk about building around Embiid; they talk about building around both him and Maxey. Any ear that will listen knows that the Sixers view Maxey as untouchable in trade talks.
But, Paul is obviously watching the Harden situation unfold from afar.
It wasn't all that long ago that he posted two sentences on his Instagram Story: "Been comfortable for so long. It's time to get uncomfortable." Now, Harden is trying to make the Sixers uncomfortable by opening the door to what he feels is the truth.
Whatever the case, Embiid made it clear that he's watching everything the Sixers are doing very closely as the Harden situation plays out. Daryl Morey and company are on the clock.