While every newfound twinge and ache in my body might disagree, the summer of 2008 wasn’t that long ago. During that offseason, the Philadelphia 76ers signed Elton Brand to a five-year, $79.8 million deal. The contract was dubbed the “Philly Max,” implying it was the best the franchise could do, under the assumption that they were a tier below the true movers and shakers in free agency.
Oh, how times have changed. The new ownership group has fortunately loosened the purse strings in recent years, and now, this past offseason has cemented Philadelphia as being on the short list of top destinations for players seeking a new home.