Philadelphia 76ers could legitimately field winning tall ball lineup

By Bret Stuter | Nov 9, 2017

PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 3: Ben Simmons #25 and Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers play against the Indiana Pacers at the Wells Fargo Center on November 3, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – NOVEMBER 3: Ben Simmons /

Options and history

This would be a great option against teams who thrive in the paint. Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, or New Orleans Pelicans. These are teams who are getting most of their offense in the paint. And in specific game situations, this lineup could launch a spark to either the offense or defense.

Would the tall ball lineup need significant playing minutes to cause an impact? Not really. But it needn’t do so. The goal of the tall ball lineup is to disrupt the opponent. Derail their momentum. Throw off their timing. Several short bursts of tall ball line-ups in a game can accomplish that.

Open-minded tall-rostered

On one hand, keep this running in the back of your mind. The tall ball option may surface unexpectedly this season. On the other hand, keep an eye out for the lineup to stand taller as the season advances. As the team approaches the post-season, the 76ers will want to exercise several new lineups. Finally, keep the option of an Embiid, Saric, Covington, TLC, Simmons lineup open. It could happen. In fact, it should happen. Not to start the game, not to end a game. But to dictate the outcome of the game.

Next: Yes, Philadelphia 76ers, Saric is Mr. Dependable

The Philadelphia 76ers found an advantage with this roster. Time to abandon shyness and run with that advantage going forward.