Alright, here we go. The Sixers played an absolute solid game tonight at the Wachovia Center and beat the Sacramento Kings by a count of 98-86. From the get go, the Sixers played with a little bit of pep in their step and the positive energy turned into positive plays. Running up and down the court and getting out in transition allowed the Sixers to take control of the game and capitalize with easy buckets. On the defensive side of the ball, the Sixers turned it up a notch and forced the Kings into 19 turnovers, mostly on dribble drive attempts. The win spoiled the return of local product Tyreke Evans and the first game back for Kevin Martin. Well, that happens.
Now, taking a look in depth at the performances of the individual Sixers teammates, it would be a big mistake to over look the production of Thaddeus Young. Young has been scrutinized and criticized recently on several Sixers publications, but answered the call on this night. Young went for 20 points on 9-of-14 shooting and really played his style of basketball. He only took one three pointer and his jumpers were limited. He got to the rack, finished and took high percentage shots. Also, Young was able to leak out on the fast break and get a dunk and easy layup. This was a great performance for Thad and hopefully this was the game that gets him out of the slump as he earned player of the game honors on the Sixers post game show.
Big Samuel Dalembert played inspired yet again with 17 points and 12 big rebounds. Sammy D started the game going 4-for-4 on numerous good looks from Allen Iverson, Lou Williams and Iguodala. Though he did battle some foul trouble in the second half, picking up his fourth early in the third quarter, he was able to establish himself early and often. That was key for the Sixers moving forward.
Elton Brand, the oldie, but goodie absolutely had his way off the bench with Jason Thompson. Highlighting the physical match up that these two usually put out, Brand was clutch with that mid range arsenal. Brand went for 14 points on 6-of-8 from the field and was a perfect 2-for-2 from the free throw line. Getting this type of bench production from the seasoned vet two games in a row is certainly cause for a smile amongst the beloved Sixers fans.
Finally, Allen Iverson played a solid game and had 17 points and six assists. Iverson was able to dribble around and through defenders playing in a zone and get to the tin. Iverson actually did look like the Iverson of old when he used to shake, bake and razzle dazzle opponents coming into the City of Brotherly Love. Rounding out the scoring for the Sixers was Lou Williams (11), Iguodala (12), M16 Speights (4) and Willie Green banged home a three ball.
Moving forward on the schedule, the Sixers will play the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday at 3:30 pm. Can we get two in a row en route to a bout with Portland? Hope so!
PEACE FROM THE 570!
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