Where do the Philadelphia 76ers stand in the early NBA Awards discussion?
The Philadelphia 76ers are 17-8, mathematically even with the Milwaukee Bucks for second in the Eastern Conference. Jimmy Butler’s arrival has brought new life to the franchise, and the Sixers seem poised for another playoff run in 2019.
Behind their early success has been several productive players. Joel Embiid is averaging 27.0 points, 13.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game, putting himself in the discussion for best big man in basketball.
Alongside Embiid, Butler and Ben Simmons look like potential All-Stars, with the former establishing himself as the best fourth-quarter scorer in the NBA. Simmons, after a slow start, is beginning to showcase his unique ability to control the pace on offense.
With arguably the most talented trio outside Golden State, the Sixers have ample opportunity to compete in the LeBron James-less Eastern Conference. While Toronto, Boston and Milwaukee remain prohibitive favorites, it’s fair to put Philadelphia in the same general tier.
Around a the one-quarter mark in the NBA season, here where the Sixers (and the rest of the league) stand in the awards discussion.