Sixers preseason takeaway #1: Shake was not a flash in the pan
One of the biggest takeaways from training camp was Doc Rivers’ infatuation with Shake Milton — an infatuation which has, so far, played out nicely on the basketball court. It’s clear Rivers is a fan of Milton, and it’s clear Milton will get plenty of freedom to do his thing as Philadelphia’s top reserve.
Milton was the Sixers’ leading scorer in both preseason games, dropping 19 against Boston and 15 against Indiana. He did so on a variety of shots — pull-up 3s, extended-arm finishes at the rim, vicious step-backs, honey-sweet floaters. It’s all there, with Milton showcasing a level of composure and pace very few 24-year-olds possess.
Despite his limited burst and lack of top-end speed, Milton has gotten pretty much anywhere he wants on the floor. His use of hesitation moves to freeze defenders, as well as his ability to shoot over them with a 7-foot-1 wingspan, has made Milton quite the force as a second-unit creator.
Rivers hasn’t committed to a concrete hierarchy of second unit players, but it is clear Milton will operate as Philadelphia’s de facto sixth man. He will get extended minutes next to Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and many of the other starters. Whether playing off of Simmons or leading the offense himself, Milton has proven himself to be someone Rivers will count on.