The Philadelphia 76ers Are Brand New

Evolution Of Sixer Lineup

So Elton Brand is coming, what should the Sixers expect?

His minutes will be limited.  Power forward Carl Landry has been healthy for the past eight games, and has averaged eleven minutes per game over that period.   Brand will average fewer minutes per game than that.  But Brand needn’t have much time to impact this team.  His shooting accuracy over the course of his career has averaged 50% from the floor, 8.6 rebounds per game will certainly help out this team, albeit on a limited basis.

The true impact will occur on the play of his younger teammates.    You’ve seen an impact of Carl Landry’s presence on this team.  They have been having some modest success now.  Rather than wilt when their opposition mounts a comeback, the Sixers have been scrapping back. Brand will add to that resolve. You see, Brand was a hardworking, non-flashy workhorse that competed on both ends of the court. Brand did not have great size for a power forward. However, Brand developed a solid post-game, a sold mid-range and turnaround jumper, and had soft hands around the rim, a nose for the ball, impressive defensive instincts and long arms, which helped him block more shots than many seven-foot centers.

Brand becomes that guy, the reference for players to access during the game, while on the bench or in the lockerroom.

"“Because you wouldn’t believe what goes on at halftime when a coaching staff is in another room. And you wouldn’t believe what goes on on the bench when you’re down 20. And you wouldn’t believe what goes on in a player’s mind when it’s a two-point game with a minute and a half left and ‘Do they know their assignments?” – Brett Brown"

The presumed association is Elton Brand will take Jahlil Okafor under his wing. But the team has Richaun Holmes (an underrated player), Nerlens Noel, Joel Embiid, alongside Okafor who could all benefit from his tutelage. Imagine if Nerlens Noel begins to pump in 20 points a game? Imagine if rookie Richaun Holmes can pick the brain of a veteran like Elton Brand? So far, Holmes has been a pleasant addition to the roster. He thinks so as well.

"“It’s going pretty well,” Holmes said. “I’m learning from the guys who have been here and figuring out things as I go from each game and try to get better. Everything is definitely fast-paced, but I think I’m up for the challenge and that’s a credit to the coaching staff. They keep us prepared and ready to play.- Richaun Holmes"

The Sixers team is built to bring players with potential and upside to the peak of their NBA abilities as quickly as possible. Right now, each player on the roster is working to either develop their own abilities, or to mentor others into doing so. The team is starting to pull together and compete. By the All-Star break, we’ll know how far we’ve come. If we haven’t shown enough improvement in some positions, the team may work a trade for another veteran.

Next: Room To Grow