5 Reasons Why Nerlens Noel Can Win Rookie of the Year

Apr 16, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers head coach Brett Brown of a game against the Miami Heat in the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

The 76ers Fast Pace Offense

Yes, the 76ers were absolutely dreadful last season, that’s obvious. However, even though the team lost 60-plus games, Philadelphia started to form an identity. That identity being an extremely young, quick, and athletic team that likes to push the ball at a frantic pace.

In most team categories, the 76ers find themselves near the bottom — or at the bottom — of the standings, expect one: Pace. The 76ers lead the NBA in pace last season at 99.2. Pace is an estimate of the number of possessions a team uses per 48 minutes. The 76ers had the fastest moving offense in the NBA last season. It didn’t translate into wins with a lack of talent and defense, but keep in mind that some other teams in the top 10 in pace last season included Portland, Oklahoma City, Houston, LA Clippers and Golden State. With the right mesh of talent, having a fast pace can be a positive for a team.

The 76ers frantic pace will only help Nerlens Noel adjust to the NBA game. Anyone that saw the former UK big man in Summer League saw how impressive he was in the open court. Noel has cat-like quickness and moves in transition nicely, as long as he isn’t trying to dribble that is. The faster the 76ers move, the more opportunities Nerlens Noel will get to score in transition, or just have more opportunities to score in general.