Who Joins Embiid Simmons As Philadelphia Core?

Dec 2, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) and center Jahlil Okafor (8) defend against Orlando Magic center Bismack Biyombo (11) during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Okafor Is Core Material

Jahlil Okafor is the first debatable player in this select group. But he has earned the consideration to be a member not only from what he’s done, but what he hasn’t done.

Let me explain.

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Jahlil Okafor’s name has been included in the cast of trade-able centers, more than Nerlens Noel. Rather than call out the front office, or even sulk, he has embraced his role with the team, no matter what that role may be. That role may be to pair up with Joel Embiid to create a dominating front court.

We’ve been whiteboarding the future of the Philadelphia 76ers for some time, asserting that the team is structured to establish a new direction for the NBA: TALL BALL. The accumulation of bigs on this team was no random act, nor accident. Former president Hinkie designed this team with tall and versatile players. The only drawback right now is their youth and inconsistent play.

But assembling the tall roster gives the team an incredible advantage. Of 32 teams, only the Philadelphia 76ers would boast that dimension. Each game would give the team more familiarity with the league and with each other. Opponents would only see this team infrequently throughout the 82 game season.

Advantage 76ers