The Philadelphia 76ers had one of the best offseasons in the NBA. Their team identity is loud and clear — they want to play suffocating defense and impose their skillful size on offense. The team added five new vets to fill out the roster, so how can they be best utilized?
“It’ll make sense soon.” After many people questioned the Philadelphia 76ers’ draft strategy, Elton Brand stayed firm to his offseason plan. The Sixers walked away from draft night with only one rookie on a full-time contract. Fast forward to August and five new Sixers were acquired as well as retaining Tobias Harris, James Ennis and Mike Scott. The expectations for the Sixers are plain and simple. It’s Finals or bust.
Assembling all of the pieces to the puzzle takes time, but it’s clear why each new Sixer was brought on. Defense is going to be the team’s calling card. The Sixers’ defensive potential is as high as anyone’s in the entire league.
They have a unique blend of size, skill and attitude. Offensively is where the Sixers will have the most growing pains. The Sixers brought in two new point guards, a Jimmy Butler-esque guard, and an All-Star big man to play alongside Joel Embiid. It will take time for the new-look Sixers to mesh. Unlocking a sustainable offense could establish Philly as the best team in the East.
Here’s how each new Sixer can be best used.