Count Your Blessings
Imagination and creativity allows someone to see what is not yet there. To envision a signficant role for Nerlens Noel on the Philadelphia 76ers roster, perhaps some imagination and creativity will be needed. But let’s not discuss what is not, but what is.
Noel is athletic, but not in the version of the tall muscular brick walls of NBA centers. Along those same lines, Noel is lengthy and lithe. His wingspan allows him to punch out the ball, reach high and tower over his opponent’s shots. His burst gives him an ability to stay in the back pocket of whomever he is defending.
What will the NBA be in several years? Based on the general proliferation to small ball offenses, NBA teams will need a response to the quicker shooters who can sink three pointers, but who will charge the basket if an opening presents itself. Nerlens Noel is the response many teams will be seeking.
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And so while we can debate whether a significant offensive presence or defensive presence is more beneficial to the Philadelphia 76ers going forward, one piece has been answered. And that is, Nerlens Noel deserves to start somewhere. Because of this, no one should doubt that his agent intends to do just that after his rookie contract expires.
The Philadelphia 76ers should make preparations now.