Six Philadelphia 76ers Things I like and don’t like

Dec 16, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ersan Ilyasova (7) dribbles past Los Angeles Lakers guard Louis Williams (23) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Los Angeles Lakers won 100-89. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Point Ersan Ilyasova

Ilyasova as a ball handler in the pick and roll has consistently surprised me. Didn't know he had that in him prior to his time with sixers.
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) January 25, 2017

I’m with Derek here. Brett Brown’s employment of the Ersan Ilyasova-Joel Embiid pick and roll is undoubtedly his way of testing the waters for a Ben Simmons-Embiid pick and roll.

This set, but with Simmons instead of Ilyasova. pic.twitter.com/poeFq11r66
— Mike O'Connor (@MOConnor_NBA) January 12, 2017

Under no circumstances should Ilyasova take the reigns and handle the ball at will. In short, quick, decisive bursts, however, Ilyasova can be very effective in attacking the basket and creating for teammates.

Next: Jahlil Okafor: Employee of the Month

Ilyasova’s impact has been palpable for the Sixers this year. His ability to stretch the floor – and now attack the basket – has made life significantly easier for Embiid, and I expect Ilyasova to be used in conjunction with Simmons and Embiid upon Simmons’ return.