The Sixer Sense
Fansided

Game Preview – LA Lakers @ Philadelphia 76ers

By Rich Martirez

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Nov 27, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) looks to pass as Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) defends during the first half at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

What To Watch For

You mean beyond EVERYTHING the slides had to offer, you want more? OK, here’s one for the Sixers to keep an eye on: The development of Nik Stauskas.

Nik is having a rough season so far, shooting 35.3% from the field and averaging a measly 5.1 ppg. He was also hurt in a game recently and needs to shake off the rust to get himself going. As a player whom the Sixers wanted to draft in 2014 before he was taken by the Sacramento Kings, Nik has an even bigger microscope on him then many of the other players on the team. Hollis Thompson has been playing better as of late, providing more all-around contributions than what Nik has been giving.

Philly is hoping Nik gets back the confidence he shown while in Michigan, where he excelled shooting AND ball-handling, which propelled his draft stock. I’m still rooting for him, since he genuinely seemed excited to play for the 76ers when he was brought over, but now it’s on him to pull it all together.

Next: What To Expect In December

Final Take

The Lakers have a lot to think about coming into this game, with Kobe’s retirement and a probable ceremony before the game from Philadelphia to celebrate his last season. Does Byron Scott force-feed minutes to Kobe as part of his last hurrah in the city where he was born? Does Kobe accept the playing time, even in his advanced age, and hoists up shots to try to end on a glamorous note? Does the city of Philadelphia boo or cheer Kobe during the game?

Prediction – The pregame rush of Kobe’s last game makes the Lakers start off strong but their energy fades by the end of the game, as the Sixers take advantage and win.

Where To Catch The Game

  • CSNPhilly is broadcasting the game.
  • 97.5 has the game on the radio.
  • NBA League Pass is available for anyone out of market or anyone who needs to stream.