Joel Embiid Dario Saric Finally Playing Before Home Crowd
By Bret Stuter
What To Look For
The Philadelphia 76ers now have one under their belts. As such, there has been 48 hours to absorb and train for the team for the next outing. What can we expect as a result?
Better Offensive Rhythm
Joel Embiid began game one without an offensive rhythm. In fact, the entire team seemed to be struggling as the Celtics bolted to a 16 point lead in the first quarter. The Washington Wizards should not be as stalwart on defense as the Celtics. As such, you should look for the 76ers to come out with a much better offense.
Strong Showing Off Bench
Roster competition is hot and heavy for this roster, and with an exception of a handful of players, you can bet the bench will be equal to the previous games performance. Expect Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot to settle down in game two and score a few times. Similarly, you can expect an extra effort from Robert Covington, whose two of seven shooting from beyond the perimeter left many disappointed.
Better Handles
The Philadelphia 76ers were a little sloppy with the ball, allowing 22 turnovers to only 16 turnovers from the Celtics. The team needs a dramatic improvement in game two of this early preseason.
Defense Remains Strong
Washington is a more difficult challenge to the 76ers defensively, as they are looking to even up their own preseason record – having lost to the Miami Heat 106-95. However, Joel Embiid is just getting warmed up, and his post presence on Philadelphia’s home court will be a man possessed. You can also bet that Nerlens Noel will see plenty of minutes, and his intensity will be 100% as well.
Philadelphia fans expecting a shoot out at the Wells Fargo Center will leave the game wanting. But fans who enjoy good basketball will be wonderfully entertained. The Philadelphia 76ers will rise to the challenge for their second preseason game.
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Joel Embiid and Dario Saric will place the NBA on alert.