The Sixer Sense
Fansided

7 observations for Philadelphia 76ers NBA Summer League

By Bret Stuter

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 02: Brett Brown of the Philadelphia 76ers yells to his team during their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on November 2, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 02: Brett Brown of the Philadelphia 76ers yells to his team during their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on November 2, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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LAS VEGAS, NV – MARCH 08: Markelle Fultz
LAS VEGAS, NV – MARCH 08: Markelle Fultz /

I: How comfortable is Markelle Fultz at PG? At SG?

As much as the 2016 NBA Draft was all about Ben Simmons, the 2017 NBA Draft is all about Markelle Fultz. And even moreso, will Markelle Fultz deliver on the versatility which made him the ideal selection for the Philadelphia 76ers?

More from The Sixer Sense

The Philadelphia 76ers will be the tale of two teams this year. With Ben Simmons, and without Ben Simmons.

The reason is clear. The presence of Simmons on the basketball court will drive the Philadelphia 76ers to line up a certain way. When Simmons comes off the court, players will  line up a different way. That will place a great deal of pressure on the defenders.

Don’t kid yourself…

But let’s not be naive. That will also place some level of pressure upon the Philadelphia 76ers players. None moreso than Markelle Fultz.

He’s a 19 year-old rookie, who is now preparing to play two distinct and differing roles at the NBA level.  He is an incredibly gifted young man. But it will take some time to become adept at two complex roles.  So the key in summer league will be first and foremost to gauge his comfort level at either position. If he is comfortable, the coaches have prepared him. That is the most crucial element this early in his career.