The 2016-2017 season for the Philadelphia 76ers has been a success because of the play of their two outstanding rookies, Dario Saric and Joel Embiid.
Even with 12 games remaining in the 2016-2017 season, there is no doubt that this season has been a great success for the Philadelphia 76ers.
With any season, there are highs and lows but this season has gone better than expected for a variety of reasons.
The great play of rookies Joel Embiid and Dario Saric have certainly made this a season to remember and are the primary reasons this season has been an overwhelming success.
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Joel Embiid
Of course, we need to start with the face of the process.
When Embiid made his long-anticipated debut on October 26, 2016, against the Oklahoma City Thunder it was apparent that he had been worth the wait.
Up until he was declared out for the season with a meniscus tear, Embiid was not only the talk of the town but of the entire league.
Embiid won two Rookie of the Month awards and a Rookie of the Year award might not be far away.
He amazed the fan base with his ability to make any shot of the floor, and has played lockdown defense.
Also, his social game has really kept fans engaged and excited about the team.
Dario Saric
Speaking of possible rookie of the year contenders Saric should certainly be near the top of everybody’s list. Saric has been better than anyone expected this year and has played a significant role for the team since the injury of Joel Embiid. In fact, it seems like he gets better after every game and has developed an impressive overall game.
His shooting has improved during the season, and he is a willing and capable passer. One of the best aspects of Saric’s rookie season is the chemistry which has developed with teammates, such as Joel Embiid and TJ McConnell.
Team chemistry is an important underrated part of a team and Saric has had no problem tapping into it.
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Overcoming adversity
The growth of players like Joel Embiid and Dario Saric have been nice, but the team has been through many injuries during the season. Ben Simmons hasn’t played a game this season because of his slow healing broken foot he suffered back in September.
Jahlil Okafor has had trouble with knee soreness, and Embiid suffered many different ailments that caused him to miss most of the season. The Philadelphia 76ers have responded to these injuries by winning 26 games through 71 games this season, a number that many did not see coming.
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Now all the 76ers can do is close out the season strong and build momentum going into the offseason and next season.
Expectations will continue to rise and the team needs to be ready to deliver.