The Real Front Court Dilemma
Youth is a disadvantage in the season, as younger players in any professional sport tend to be sporadic. One game they fill the highlights reel, the next game they become invisible. But in the off-season, that youth becomes a distinct advantage.
Young players who want to excel at the sport train longer and harder. That training shows up in the season. In fact, even most NBA elite show statistical improvements over their first four or five seasons. For the Philadelphia 76ers, most of the team’s current roster falls in the three years or less range – so all players are in that curve of improving.
Another strength to young players is their versatility. After a player hits five years of experience, they are pretty much what they are. But younger players, still learning the NBA, have the ability to switch roles and contribute in a new position.
It’s that ability to adapt which is the solution to the Philadelphia 76ers front court. With three positions to fill: Center, Power Forward, and Small Forward, the team will have plenty of elite bodies to fit into those roles.
We’ve discussed the various lineups the Sixers could consider with the addition of Simmons, Saric and Embiid. Now granted, the team may elect Brandon Ingram at the number one pick, and they have yet to address the back court.
Next: We Can Work It Out