Who can be trusted?
Of the previously mentioned bench, two players jump out as reliable in a playoff series: Mike Scott and T.J. McConnell.
Mike Scott is the most consistent bench contributor. He can impact the game in multiple phases. Scott is a 39 percent shooter from three and a competent defender who can handle switches. He’s tough enough to mix it up down low with centers and will contest guards on the perimeter.
He can impact the game beyond his statline. He can play small-five alongside Ben Simmons and Tobias Harris, and can fit in lineups with Joel Embiid. Scott is the most flexible option the Sixers have on the bench. His shooting, defense, and competitive edge makes him the most valuable second-unit player.
T.J. McConnell was huge during last year’s playoffs. He was the ideal amount of spark-plug and stabilizer. During last year’s playoffs, McConnell shot nearly 70 percent from the field. In addition to his efficient shooting, McConnell was dishing out 2.3 assists per game while playing roughly 15 minutes per contest. We’ve seen McConnell single-handedly spark the team time after time with his relentless effort. It’s clear he has Brett Brown’s trust, which won’t be faltering anytime soon.
We’ve seen T.J. McConnell struggle recently. Bigger teams will practically swallow him whole, and lanky defenders can keep him dribbling aimlessly into mistakes, but when McConnell is at his best, his demeanor permeates throughout the team. T.J.’s workload in the playoffs may slim down due to Jimmy Butler’s ability to run the point. 11 minutes, per se, would be much better than the 20+ minute outings we’ve seen recently
McConnell and Scott can both greatly influence games without attractive box score numbers. Nobody else on the Sixers bench is capable of the silent impact these two gritty vets can provide.