The Sixer Sense
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Have Philadelphia 76ers created an NBA power shift?

CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 31: T.J. McConnell #1 talks with Gerald Henderson #12 and Richaun Holmes #22 of the Philadelphia 76ers as they walk off the court during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on March 31, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 31: T.J. McConnell #1 talks with Gerald Henderson #12 and Richaun Holmes #22 of the Philadelphia 76ers as they walk off the court during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on March 31, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
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Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

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?”.

Next: Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot got snubbed from NBA All-Rookie teams

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.