Have Philadelphia 76ers created an NBA power shift?
By Bret Stuter
Slow steady pace winning the race
When the focus of the NBA is upon the Philadelphia 76ers, it’s ignoring another proponent of the asset accumulation category: the Boston Celtics.
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The Celtics are winning games and have a remarkably effective team in the regular season. But when the team approaches ways to improve the roster, President Danny Ainge is the poster child of slow and deliberate NBA moves. Was it any wonder Hinkie admired him so? They were of the same mindset.
However, fates dealt Ainge a solid set of assets. By the time Hinkie arrived to the Sixers, the team was barren with any NBA currency. But they shared a similar strategy. That strategy simply states: do what others are reluctant to do.
More will follow
Now other NBA teams, frustrated with the blockade at post-season play imposed by the Warriors/Cavaliers, must choose their strategy wisely. Do they follow traditional methods, hope for a miraculous find from one of two NBA draft picks, and believe they can best one of the two top NBA teams in post season?
Or do they strategically retreat? Trade their top player(s) now, accumulate draft picks and overseas talent, and synchronize the arrival of all to create a nucleus of very talented young players who can challenge the NBA’s best when they come into their own? Until now, they chose the former because it meant job security. Now there is a growing concern to both owners and players about “what is the real plan here?”.
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The power shift of the NBA is beginning folks. The Houston Rockets get it. The Boston Celtics get it. But most of all, the Philadelphia 76ers get it. Hold on, this is going to be a zany off-season.