(Photo Credit: Kurt Gies)
We are just hours away from a new beginning for your Philadelphia 76ers. The Sixers left off a very inconsistent bunch with a Jeckly and Hide look to them. The defense was solid for the most part but the offense bland and predictable. Injuries decimated the Sixers too but also birthed a true look at Shake Milton as a starting point guard and few games where Tobias Harris was able to put the team on his back. The COVID layoff has given Brett Brown time to reevaluate things and to his credit, he has made some pretty important changes which will give the Sixers a completely new look.
Shake Milton is now your starting point good which gives you a guy who can shoot off-ball as well as with the ball in his hands. The move provides spacing on the floor bringing an outside shot to the guard position, kind of like what Markelle Fultz was supposed to do for us.
Ben Simmons is now at the 4 but let’s not get it twisted. Ben is not your traditional 4 or even a stretch 4 for that matter. Yes, we saw Ben knock down a 3 but he will still have the ball in his hands often. Point forward as they say and I think this will help utilize Simmons versatility better and will offer many different lineup options as well. Alley-Oop City!!!!
Joel Embiid will now have much more spacing to help limit the double teams he gets on a nightly basis. I expect the big man to DOMINATE! He will still be out at the three-point line and will be good for 3-4 attempts a game but his post-game should be more productive. GET EXCITED!
Al Horford looks refreshed and is knocking down 3s so far in the scrimmage games. I hope the shot-making continues but I believe his veteran playoff experience will finally pay off. Brett has touted an Al lineup and a Joel lineup which I think is the right thing to do. The offense will still now run through the elbow more giving Al the ability to pick and pop knocking down those 15 footers we saw in Boston.
Tobias Harris has becomes the glue that kept the Sixers together though this pandemic. Look to see a more aggressive Harris that wants the ball in his hands. He has asserted himself as the leader of this team. Do not be surprised if Harris suddenly becomes clutch in crunch time.
Thybulle needs to keep his aggressive defense going but will have to watch the foul trouble. Josh Richardson is a back too and could be an “X” factor. The bench remains a question mark but Alec Burks seems to know his role now. Hopefully, Glen Robinson III is healthy by playoff time.
Get ready for a Title Run in Orlando! No team in the East wants to play the Sixers nor do they match up with us. The Sixers have also beaten the touted Lakers and Clippers! You heard it here 1st everyone. The Philadelphia 76ers are winning the 2020 NBA Championship!
TRUST THE PROCESS!
Freddy Burns
Co-Host & Writer for Edge of Philly Sports
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