The Philadelphia 76ers are getting after it in Orlando.
The word “chippy” tends to have a negative connotation. It means players coming to blows — or close to it. An intense physicality normally brought on by bad blood or disdain. In the context of the Philadelphia 76ers, however, “chippy” practices are a sign of change. Important, necessary change.
When talking to reporters on Saturday, Josh Richardson cited the increased intensity of Philadelphia’s practices. He called them “chippy,” but was quick to endorse it — excited by the collective chip on the Sixers’ shoulder.
"“It’s been hard competition every day and a few practices, you know like [Friday], got a little chippy, but you know I like when practices get like that because it shows that people care, shows that people are competing”"
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The Sixers struggled to establish chemistry before the hiatus, and at times, it felt as though players were going through the motions, never truly interested in making the pieces fit. The front office deserves blame for a poorly constructed roster, but it’s safe to say the Sixers never played up to par — even as an ill-fitted, oftentimes clunky group.
In Orlando, the vibe around this team has changed noticeably. Al Horford has been more vocal, Shake Milton is excelling in his new role, and Ben Simmons is swishing 3s for the camera. The cherry on top, of course, has been the impressive video snippets of Joel Embiid’s practice exploits.
It feels like the Sixers have something to prove. As if the hiatus has benefitted — not stunted — the Sixers’ chemistry. Major props go to Tobias Harris for his leadership during the break. But on the whole, it seems as if Philadelphia is operating on a higher wavelength than before. As if a switch has been flipped.
“Chippy” practices are the tangible manifestation of the Sixers’ hunger. Of their desire to improve upon the prior drudgery of 2019-20. Richardson is one of the loudest voices in the locker room, so his commentary on the feel and physicality of practice means something. He’s a tone-setter.
Everyone on the roster has something to prove. Embiid needs to prove his physical fitness and mental engagement. Simmons needs to prove his commitment at power forward. Richardson needs to establish his health. Harris needs to live up to a $180 million. Al Horford needs to live up to his name. And so on.
A lot could go wrong for the Sixers in Orlando, but a lot could go right. The Sixers have enough talent to compete in the Eastern Conference. If everything comes together — if this group finally gels behind the insertion of Shake Milton in the starting five — it could mean a thrilling ride in Disney World.