Shooters
As a team, the Philadelphia 76ers shot 43.1 percent from the floor, and just 33.9 percent from long distance treys. But the team had a turnover on the roster, and that turnover was not just to get new faces, but improve in shooting.
When the team determined which free agents to sign, it was clear they made an effort to improve shot selection by keying in on players who shot better than the team’s 43.1 percent average. Guard Jerryd Bayless shot 42.3 percent from the floor, and 43.7 percent from three point range. So too, shooting guard Gerald Henderson shot 43.9 percent from the floor, and 35.7 percent from trey range.
Even in the international arena, the team will debut Dario Saric, who shot 50 percent from the floor and 40.3 percent from the perimeter, while Sergio Rodriguez shot 47.7 percent from the floor and 40.7 percent from beyond the arc.
Keep in mind that nearly all outgoing players contributing to the 76ers offense last season shot below team average, including Ish Smith (40.5 and 33.6 percent), Isaiah Canaan (36 and 36.3 percent-better than team three point average), Elton Brand (43.1 and 0 percent), Christian Wood (41.5 percent and 36.3 percent-better than team three point average), Jakarr Sampson (43.6 and 17.6 percents), Sonny Weems (33.3 and 22.2 percent), Tony Wroten (33.8 percent and 17.6 percent)
The key to success of a Ben Simmons offense is to surround him with shooters. The 76ers have certainly made the attempt this year.
Next: Cleaner Shots