4 76ers Playing Their Final Postseason in Philadelphia

2. Nicolas Batum

When Nicholas Batum was first acquired by the Sixers as part of the James Harden trade from the Clippers, he wasn't seen as a potential contributor. He was thrown in to match the salaries and how much fuel the 35-year-old had left in the tank was a question mark.

But the French forward has been one of the most pleasant surprises of the season for Philadelphia. He is obviously not the player he was during his Blazers or Hornets days, but he is an important piece for the Sixers team.

Batum can dribble, shoot, and pass on the offensive end, impressively hitting over 40 percent of his threes, while being able to defend multiple positions on the defensive side of the ball. With a 6'8 frame and long arms, Batum can guard bigger players, provide rim protection, and switch out on the perimeter to smaller guards when needed. The 3-and-D skillset he provides for this team is rare and can't be replicated by others.

However, he is getting up there in age. He has made clear his intentions to retire after he plays for the French national team at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Things can always change and he can decide to come back for another season but the Sixers will miss Batum if he indeed doesn't return.