The Philadelphia 76ers are an even 1-1 after two days in Las Vegas.
After a strong opening win over the Milwaukee Bucks, the Philadelphia 76ers battled the Boston Celtics on the second day of Summer League. It resulted in a 96-82 loss — a score that doesn’t do justice to how entertaining the contest was.
It was a showcase for several intriguing prospects. Matisse Thybulle, Zhaire Smith and Norvel Pelle stood out for Philadelphia. Grant Williams and Carsen Edwards are blissful for Boston, though it came with a tinge of regret and disappointment for Sixers fans.
While the Sixers weren’t perfect, it was a strong and encouraging game. Thybulle and Smith showed flashes of rotation-level performance, while Pelle was a major factor on both ends. Marial Shayok made some impressive shots, P.J. Dozier was there and Shake Milton came into his own a bit.
All five members of the starting lineup — Milton, Smith, Thybulle, Shayok, Pelle — will presumably be on the 17-man roster next season. All five have a chance, to some degree, to carve out a niche, whether it’s in high-energy bursts or a legitimate rotation spot.
Thybulle and Smith attempted 14 3-point attempts in total. For two defensive prospects who entered the league with offensive question marks, that volume is significant. It shows a concerted effort to become reliable spot-up shooters.
Milton continues to show a mixed bag on the court. Fresh off a new contract, it’s clear he’s not an NBA point guard. He’s better in a secondary creation role, as his limited athleticism offsets his feel and vision as a passer.
Pelle was a massive deterrent all night. He went toe-to-toe with Robert Williams, skying for blocks, altering shots and finishing lobs on offense. The Sixers are loaded in the frontcourt, but he has a skill set with clear application at the next level.
The Sixers next game is Monday, July 8.