Philadelphia 76ers Should Utilize Small Ball

Feb 13, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) brings the ball up court against the Texas A&M Aggies during the first half of a game at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 13, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) brings the ball up court against the Texas A&M Aggies during the first half of a game at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
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Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Philadelphia’s main goal under Bryan Colangelo has been establishing a team identity and really highlighting what direction the franchise is set to take moving forwards. With Ben Simmons now the cornerstone of what has been an otherwise hazy rebuilding process after Sam Hinkie’s stint with the team, building portions of the game plan around the Sixers’ newfound versatility could be a massive step towards attaining their goals.

The Sixers have been steadfast in their search for a place to unload either Nerlens Noel or Jahlil Okafor. Their rotation won’t be nearly as a big man-heavy as it currently is by the time they reach legitimate competition in the East, and running their system like it will be would be a noteworthy mistake.

Whether it’s for extended periods of time or only a few stretches per contest, the Sixers should undoubtedly look to implement small ball into their plan of action. Allowing Simmons and company to run the court and utilize the full scope of their talents in a spaced out, up-tempo environment could be crucial for both their development and the success of the team to some extent.

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They have the opportunity to outmatch teams in a manner that they haven’t been able to for years now, which could lead to both an increased win total and an uptick in confidence around the organization from the top down.