Noel Is Team Player
Noel was the player who saw the challenges coming and worked hard in the off-season to acclimate his game to the demands of the four spot. His practice sessions at Newport Rhode Island were intended to bring his game up at power forward. But the effort has been a struggle so far. In terms of flexibility, Noel has been a true professional, accepting whatever role has been asked of him.
When the season started, they asked Noel to set up at power forward. When he struggled there, the team asked him to rotate off the bench. When Jahlil Okafor was suspended for two games, Nerlens Noel was given the chance to play center again. When Ish Smith returned, Nerlens Noel was asked to rekindle the magic he shared with Smith a year ago. At all junctures this season, Noel has acquiesced to the requests of the team.
“It’s been a difficult adjustment at times.” – Nerlens Noel
It’s a nice refreshing change in the face of the player issues in other Philadelphia sports franchises.
"“We had some wins with Nerlens at a 5, then Jahlil got healthy and Nerlens gets bumped back to the 4,” Brown said. “He’s got to play defense sometimes as a 4 and offense sometimes as a 4. Jah has been where he’s always been, so Jahlil really isn’t taking a hit as far as a comfort level. Nerlens most definitely is. I know at times that would be frustrating for him."
Noel revealed that he’s worked hard and making the best of the situation.
"“It’s been a difficult adjustment at times. It’s different,” Noel said. “Obviously, a new position is something new in the game of basketball when you’re not really used to it. You have to adjust in different ways. I’m better with more things that a 5 man does right now.”"
We had thought at one point that the Sixers would flip the pair, and give Noel a chance at center while Okafor adapted his game to the four spot. But that option has now been closed.
Next: Brett Browns Dilemma