Philadelphia 76ers: Best Sixers lineups in crucial game scenarios

Scenario 5: Sixers on defense, holding a three point lead (5 seconds left in the game)

Best Sixers lineup: Ben Simmons, Matisse Thybulle, Danny Green, Justin Anderson, Tobias Harris

In this scenario, the opposing team must score a 3-pointer to tie the 76ers. There is not enough time to inbound the ball, score a quick two, and hope to foul a Sixer player without risk of time expiring. Therefore, a play drawn up for a 3-point basket is the opponent’s best bet. That means the Sixers must swarm the perimeter. They must be careful of backscreens and be able to switch quick enough to recover should an opposing 3-point threat makes his way to the arc. This lineup offers the best chance for the Sixers to effectively contest a shot and secure the win.

With Thybulle and Simmons, the Sixers have quickness and length. This is critical when you consider the other team will have their best shooters in the game who could try and take a few dribbles before getting up a shot. If you are concerned about Thybulle making a rookie mistake, he is not a rookie anymore. Under Doc Rivers and Dan Burke, Thybulle will be more aware and disciplined not to foul in this situation.

Green is quick enough to stay with his man and wise enough to recognize offensive sets to quickly decide if and when to switch. Justin Anderson and Tobias Harris are not shot blocking threats, but they are quick enough and tall enough to stay with players who may be a fourth or fifth option to score from long distance.

With the game on the line, this is the group of players who the Sixers need under five seconds to contest a last second 3-point shot.

Now, it’s just a matter of time before the balls get rolled out. The Sixers play Tuesday night, and fans are brewing with excitement. Will Doc Rivers use any of the lineups mentioned? There are sure to be similar situations that arise in the subsequent games. With the right plans and execution, the Philadelphia 76ers will hopefully come out on top of crucial games and eventually lift the championship banner that fans have been longing to see.