Philadelphia 76ers: 5 things to watch vs. Brooklyn Nets in first round

1. Playoff Jimmy and Tobi

The Sixers were good but not great in the 2018 playoffs. Elton Brand made it his goal to change the outcome in 2019, swinging two blockbuster deals to add Jimmy Butler and Tobias Harris to a star-studded roster.

In 10 games with all five starters healthy, the Sixers have seen promising glimpses — an 8-2 record and a +17.6 net rating for the core group. With Butler struggling to adjust to his role and Harris slumping, however, there are concerns about how the new additions will function in the postseason.

Given Butler’s reputation, personality and aging body, it’s reasonable to assume he was withholding full effort on defense this season. He’s talked a big game his whole career, but the 29-year-old can’t give full effort for 82 games and get to the playoffs at 100 percent. It feels like he’s finally acknowledging that.

Assuming Butler kicks it into gear, expect the Sixers to find Jimmy early and often. Brown has wanted Butler to put his thumbprint on games more often, and getting some vintage Jimmy Buckets performances could go a long way in improving the Sixers’ shaky title odds.

When it comes to Harris, the Sixers don’t need much — just a functional fourth option who hits threes, runs the pick-and-roll and doesn’t get trampled on defense. He’s more than good enough to fill that void. It’s just about finding his rhythm, which has been lacking in recent weeks.

The Sixers have enough talent to make a legitimate run in the Eastern Conference. Both Jimmy and Tobias need to step up in order for it to happen.