4. More minutes for Alec Burks (and maybe Raul Neto)
The Sixers will still occasionally use Ben Simmons at point guard, but the general expectation is Simmons will spend more time next to other ball-handlers. That means Alec Burks is likely to see increased minutes as Philadelphia’s de facto backup to Milton.
Whether Burks officially registers minutes at point guard or not, his skill set is of tremendous value to the Sixers. He can handle in the pick-and-roll, hit pull-up jumpers on the perimeter, and make plays off of dribble penetration. He’s more inclined to score than to create for others, but the Sixers need to work with what they have.
Burks averaged 16.1 points per game this season before the trade to Philadelphia. He’s capable of carrying a significant chunk of the offense when necessary. The Sixers have more depth and talent than Golden State, but Burks’ offensive repertoire should only increase in value once the postseason arrives.
Brett Brown has long been a fan of veterans, and Burks is one of the most experienced players in the second unit. He’s someone who has proven he can shoot at a high volume and create off the bounce. It’s difficult to imagine a future in which Burks doesn’t win over Brown.
As for Raul Neto, he could see a resurgence of sorts if the Sixers are willing to experiment the rest of the regular season. Neto has struggled to maintain a role this year, but he’s a good shooter and mistake-averse playmaker with postseason experience. If the Sixers want to run Simmons next to true point guards, Neto remains a viable — if unexciting — option.