How The Sixers Can Sneak Into The Playoffs
Chemistry
To say a miracle must happen for the Sixers to end up where the Celtics were by the All Star break is an understatement, but crazier occurrences have been evident in the NBA. The Sixers must not only exceed all expectations, but must also gel to form a prolific unit that proves formidable on both sides of the ball.
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Chemistry hasn’t been of the upmost importance the past two years for the Sixers, as Philadelphia has served as a revolving door for both youngsters and veterans. In fact, the Sixers retained just 3 players (Tony Wroten, Hollis Thompson, and Nerlens Noel*) since Sam Hinkie took the reigns.
*Noel was drafted under Hinkie’s first year, but missed the entire 2013-14 season. Still considered one of the longest tenured Sixers.
We saw hints of chemistry near the tail end of last year, specifically between former point guard Ish Smith and center Nerlens Noel. However, to put themselves in the situation to play sleeper, the chemistry must evolve much sooner than it did in 2014-15.
This will be quite a task to accomplish, as there already seems to be quite a debate about who will take hold of the starting PG position. With two returning starters already set to start once again this year (Robert Covington, Noel, three if you consider Thompson as well), the chemistry may slowly be starting to form. Continuity in the lineup has been a problem, but the Sixers seem committed to finding the best possible lineup for the future. The chemistry will come as the games go by.
Next: Beefed Up Offense