Scenario 4: Sixers on defense, holding one-point lead (20 seconds left in the game)
Best Sixers lineup: Ben Simmons, Matisse Thybulle, Joel Embiid, Dwight Howard, Danny Green
Clearly, this lineup is stout. With this set of defenders, the opposition may as well try and climb Mt. Everest on skates. With three outstanding perimeter players and two shot-blocking juggernauts, the task of scoring against this Sixers lineup is more than daunting. The other team only needs a 2-point field goal. So what do they do?
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Pick your poison. Either they attempt to drive on Simmons or Thybulle, with the risk of getting clamped, or they try to pull up for a jumper and get their shot tipped, as both Sixer players are known for doing when locked in. Let’s say they do drive with success and attempt to kick out to an open man? Well, with Danny Green as an additional perimeter defender, the passing lanes shrink, and pass deflections become a serious deterrent for that option.
The worst option for the 76ers’ opponent in this situation is to try and score against Embiid or Howard. Both players have an impressive career average of two blocks per game. Their presence alone in the paint would alter any midrange floaters or layups. Also, their rebounding becomes key, as any long jumpers with the clock running down can be secured by two of the best rebounders in the game.
So, whether we are talking rim protectors or wing defenders, this lineup for the 76ers offers the best opportunity to thwart any last second chance for an opponent to steal a last second lead.