The Sixer Sense
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5 reasons the Philadelphia 76ers won’t make the playoffs

By Myles Stedman

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 9: Markelle Fultz #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball against Shane Larkin #8 of the Boston Celtics during the preseason game on October 9, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 9: Markelle Fultz #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball against Shane Larkin #8 of the Boston Celtics during the preseason game on October 9, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Recently we explored five reasons the Philadelphia 76ers would make the playoffs. Today, it is the adverse.

This is an article I took no joy writing. This is merely a devil’s advocate, “embrace debate” piece. However, that does not mean these points do not possess any merit.

I would hate for the Philadelphia media to get too high on this team from the outset, and for the players to feel as if they are under pressure. They’re not.

This is a young team with a tonne of talent learning how to win, and the expectation should be us enjoying watching them grow.

Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers /

Philadelphia 76ers

Yes, the Eastern Conference is down this year. Yes, Joel Embiid is already one of the best players in the NBA. Yes, this year is going to be a lot of fun. Let’s not spoil it with unrealistic expectations.

1. No chemistry

There has been a lot of roster turnover for the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason. There are projected to be at least two new starters, and plenty of new bench occupants to boot.

These players will certainly improve Philly basketball, but do not expect that improvement to come immediately. The players will need time to jell on the court. That may take 10 games, it may take 20, or it may take 30 or more.

We’ve been patient for almost five years. We can wait a few months longer.

2. Two rookie point guards

Every team with championships aspirations needs a superstar ball handler, whether it’s the point guard, small forward, shooting guard or even power forward.

The Sixers are now fortunate enough to have not one, but two rookies with that potential, in Simmons and Fultz. While the former has been anointed the starting pg for day one, Fultz will also spend plenty of time there this season.

Remember, though – they are rookies. Neither has played a game in the League, and neither should be expected to play like they have from day dot. They will need to get used to their teammates and the rest of the NBA.

3. Question marks over health

I never make predictions on a player or team’s health. It’s a brilliant way to look like an idiot, and it’s not very kind to predict injury.

That’s not what this point is. What I am suggesting is the team’s health will be managed, especially Embiid’s and Simmons’.

Must Read: Top 30 players in Sixers franchise history

Both are young men coming off season-ending injuries of varying severity. Embiid has now missed around two and a half of his three seasons in the League. There will be resting, and lots of it, so don’t get angry.

4. Question marks over coaching staff

This is not a slight at Brett Brown, or any other members of the coaching staff, who have had the most thankless job in sports over the past four to five years.

However, they have their own challenges this season. Not only do they have to manage the players and the games as usual, but they also have to develop professionally, from babysitters into parents.

For Brown and the staff, ‘The Process’ era has been about showing their men how to be NBA players. Now, it’s about showing them how to be winning NBA players.

5. You win nothing with youth

Thankfully, your team knows this, so you should too. They have added veterans such as Redick and Amir Johnson, and will get Jerryd Bayless back (fun fact: they are the only three 1980s-born players on the roster).

All it takes to notice this trend is a glance to the Minnesota Timberwolves or Sacramento Kings. These two have built (less successfully) on youth, and neither has made the playoffs in 10+ years.

Next: 5 reasons Sixers will make the playoffs

You shouldn’t expect the same from Philadelphia, but it serves as a reminder, the youth movement can be a long and painful rebuild if you don’t do it correctly. Let’s be patient and make sure we do.