Game Preview: Philadelphia 76ers at the Atlanta Hawks

Game Preview: Philadelphia 76ers at the Atlanta Hawks

We are already through a quarter of basketball, and the Philadelphia 76ers are at that point of the season again—trade rumors, coaching hot-seats and next season’s future. With the hiring of Jerry Colangelo, now the chairman of basketball operations in Phily, some predict changes to the franchise.

But there’s still basketball to be played, and the Sixers tip off against the Atlanta Hawks tonight 7:00 p.m. ET.

This is the first bout between the two Eastern Conference teams. The Hawks will enter the game at 14-12, and if the playoffs started today, they would be on the outside looking in. This is a slow start considering Atlanta had the best record in the Conference last year.

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However, for the Sixers, if the season ended today, they would be in nearly the same position as last year—thinking about lottery Ping-Pong balls. The Sixers are 1-25, on a seven game losing streak, and still leading the league in turnovers a game, giving away 17 possessions a game.

Bottom line, the Sixers are abysmal. They own a league low 41.2 shooting percentage and they usually get outscored by 12 points a game. It’s been discussed openly and often, that they’re the youngest in the league, and don’t have the talent on the roster to compete in games.

But there’s something about the Sixers atrociousness that’s riveting. The up-and-coming, potential franchise player in Jahlil Okafor, has never lost this many games in his life. Former number 1 draft pick Joel Embiid has yet to suit, as he’s still on his year and a half hiatus. Then there’s still the mystique of international and unproven power forward Dario Saric, who is set to join the team next year.

I know it hurts, but listen to your favorite, spirit-boosting Journey song and find faith in these 2015 Philadelphia 76ers. Soon this seemingly, Shakespearian tragedy, will shift gears, and transpire into a team that Philly can be proud of. Because we all know the Eagles are far from prosperity.

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What To Watch For:

In the last three games, Okafor has more than 20 points. He’ll be facing either Atlanta’s C Al Horford or PF Paul Milsap. It should be an interesting match up, as the young Sixer has struggled against veteran players. If Okafor can continue his offensive effectiveness, the Sixers could keep up with the Hawks, who average 100 points per game.

The Sixers also need to contain Millsap, as he’s been a terror, scoring 18 a game and averaging a team high 9 rebounds a game.

Final Take: 

The Hawks are on a skid of their own, losing their past three. PG Jeff Teague and SG Kyle Korver will look to end their shooting slumps, as both have uncharacteristically struggled from downtown. Korver returns to Philadelphia, where he started his career. Look for Korver to have a game, and shoot the Sixers out of the gym.

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Where to Catch the Game:

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