The Philadelphia 76ers' search for a new president of basketball operations is beginning to take clearer form as former Golden State Warriors executive Bob Myers will take an active role in basketball decision-making moving forward. The candidate that the Sixers are looking for is expected to work with Myers "five out of seven days a week", a notable pledge given his responsibilities across the broader Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment portfolio.
NBA Insider Marc Stein recently reported some news on the Sixers' search and potential candidates. As the search unfolds, several names have surfaced, though early indications suggest that landing some top targets may prove difficult.
One widely discussed candidate is Atlanta Hawks executive Onsi Saleh, who previously worked under Myers in Golden State. The existing relationship naturally makes Saleh an intriguing option. However, Stein reports that league expectations are that Saleh will remain in Atlanta. Not only would the Sixers need permission to pursue him, but that permission could be difficult to obtain given Saleh’s strong standing within the Hawks organization. He recently finished as the runner-up for Executive of the Year, further strengthening Atlanta’s incentive to retain him.
Tim Connelly has also been loosely associated with Philadelphia, but similar challenges persist. The Minnesota Timberwolves would need to grant permission for discussions, and recent precedent suggests that may be unlikely. Minnesota is reportedly interested in extending Connelly, making a departure even less probable. The situation mirrors the Dallas Mavericks’ recent front-office search, in which a lack of access to under-contract executives ultimately forced them to focus on unrestricted candidates.
While external candidates present complications, the Sixers may also look inward or to candidates that have previous ties to Philadelphia.
A sleeper candidate could be current assistant general manager Jameer Nelson. He is not expected to be considered initially, but he is expected to hold an increased role regardless of who is hired. Nelso is highly regarded within the organization and across the league, described as a "rising executive" by Stein.
Sixers consultant Neil Olshey's name has been floated, as he has a close relationship with Myers. Oklahoma City Thunder executive Vince Rozman, who previously spent time in Philadelphia, has also surfaced as a candidate with familiarity and front office experience.
Ultimately, the Sixers’ search appears less about a single hire and more about constructing a collaborative leadership structure anchored by Myers’ vision and experience. His increased involvement signals a shift toward a more hands-on, interconnected approach, one that blends external leadership with internal continuity.
The Sixers have used this approach before, and it was not ideal. The adage "too many cooks in the kitchen" comes to mind when thinking of the days of a collaborative front office.
Whoever takes over this front office has a difficult job to do, steering the Sixers into their next era.
More: What’s next for the Sixers after Daryl Morey’s departure?
