Long season, but rapidly improving
It’s a tough place for Philadelphia 76ers fans. Yes, the team has played this season in winning and losing spurts. But when this team starts stringing together wins against the Celtics, Raptors, Spurs, Bucks, and Pistons, they prove that they deserve to play in post-season. And they get better with each game.
This is a team with a scheme designed by head coach Brett Brown and former team president Sam Hinkie. The goal was to excel at pace, space, and pass.
Pace: https://t.co/v7J19p81hO
— Bret Stuter 🏈🐑+ 🏀🐺 (@milroyigglesfan) December 3, 2017
Space: https://t.co/vQkSblnyEs
Pass: https://t.co/y6NhDyJv98
So far, this team is doing just that.
Rhythm > fast pace
But suddenly, the fast pace is becoming secondary to a better cadence for the team. With a slower cadence for slower teams, the 76ers are realizing just how good they are defensively. They held the Boston Celtics to just 80 points on January 18. Then, just eight days later, they held the San Antonio Spurs to just 78 points.
Next: Cousins injury = huge payday for Philadelphia 76ers Joel Embiid?
As a result, things are beginning to get very interesting:
Over the past 11 games, the 76ers are tied with the Warriors for the best record at 9-2, have the 8th-best ORTG (109.5), 2nd-best DRTG (97.5) and best NRTG (12.0). At 24-21, they’re currently the 6 seed and are just 3 games back of the Cavs for the 3 seed. #HereTheyCome
— Jackson Frank (@jackfrank_jjf) January 27, 2018
Who realistically wants to face a team this hot in the NBA Playoffs? If the trend continues, the Philadelphia 76ers will be playing some of the most consistant and stellar basketball in the league at season’s end. And a hot team at the right time can make all the difference in the world. Just ask Philadelphia Eagles fans.