The Sixer Sense
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What can we learn during Philadelphia 76ers preseason?

By Bret Stuter

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 26: Head coach Brett Brown (R) and assistant coach Lloyd Pierce of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Indiana Pacers during a game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 26, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the 76ers 107-94. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 26: Head coach Brett Brown (R) and assistant coach Lloyd Pierce of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Indiana Pacers during a game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 26, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the 76ers 107-94. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Five key observations to Philadelphia 76ers preseason games

The preseason is not about personal stats, nor wins and losses. In fact, they do not tell much of the story at all. This is “dress rehearsal” for the team. As such, it’s about trying out differing lineups, plays, and other “not so obvious” matters which will be integrated into the background when the regular season gets underway.

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    • As such, there are some factors which will impact the preseason significantly. Other factors will not impact the early games at all.  So the conundrum is focusing attention on the key performance indicators (KPIs) of the preseason games.

    Preseason KPI’s

    I have spent some time analyzing which statistics are important enough to call them out to your attention. They are the following:

    KPI   I:  Which five players start most preseason games?
    Of the group, which five begin the most preseason games?
    KPI  II:  Which players take the most three-point shot attempts?
    The Philadelphia 76ers are seeking to identify the perimeter shooters. In preseason, it’s an open audition.
    KPI III:  Which player(s) are first in off the bench?
    Even season starters may come off the bench in preseason. Look for which players come off first.
    KPI IV:  Which player gets the most looks in differing lineups?
    The team will experiment with lineups. The best players will remain the constants as other players cycle through.
    KPI V:   How much has team defense improved? How are defensive assignments differing from last season?

    The team is seeking stronger defense. Preseason will help determine what that defensive strategy is. Will it be scheme, player, or combination?

    Okay, let’s dive in on these and translate what the objective really is?