The Philadelphia 76ers have experienced a series of painful defeats in their recent history, with one moment standing out as particularly defining: Kawhi Leonard's game-winning shot during the 2019 NBA playoffs. This buzzer-beater in Game 7 against the Toronto Raptors not only ended the Sixers' hopes of advancing to the conference finals but has since been recognized as one of the most iconic moments in NBA history. As the Sixers reflect on this moment six years later, it serves as a reminder of the missed opportunities that have plagued the franchise.

In a recent ranking by CBS Sports, Leonard's shot was placed fourth among the most iconic shots over the past 25 years, just behind Kyrie Irving's famous three-pointer in the 2016 NBA Finals. The significance of Leonard's shot resonates deeply with Sixers fans, as it encapsulates the fragility of their success during the Joel Embiid era. Had that shot missed, the trajectory of the franchise, including the futures of key players like Ben Simmons and Jimmy Butler, could have been drastically different.

Following that fateful game, the Sixers made significant roster changes that would ultimately alter their path. The team traded Jimmy Butler to the Miami Heat and signed Al Horford, moves that did not yield the anticipated results. As the Sixers navigate through the offseason, they are left to ponder what could have been and how they can move forward to build a successful team around Embiid. The shadow of that historic moment looms large as the franchise seeks redemption and a return to championship contention.