The Sixers are excited to play on Wednesday. So excited, it seems, the franchise has decided to debut their 2021-22 NBA City Edition uniforms.
Chicago’s DeMar DeRozan is no doubt looking forward to tip-off as well. His performances this season have led his team to a 6-1 record. Contributions from Zach LaVine, Nikola Vucevic, and Lonzo Ball have kept Chicago at the top of the Eastern Conference.
The Sixers will need another strong all-around effort against the Bulls
Philadelphia has experienced early-season success. Doc Rivers has led his team through an offseason that had the potential to cease all progress. Instead, the Sixers locker room stuck together, and it shows in the win column. Their 5-2 record has them ranked as a top team in the Conference. Performances from Tyrese Maxey, Seth Curry, and Joel Embiid have helped the Sixers assert their dominance.
All eyes will be on Joel Embiid during this conference battle. Philadelphia’s star center leads the team in blocks and points per game. Embiid will be playing without his partner in crime Tobias Harris, who is out due to COVID health protocols.The veteran averages 19.8 points per game. The team will miss his point contributions.
Georges Niang has shown that he can perform if needed. The former Iowa State forward has averaged 10.7 points this season. His scoring and playmaking abilities have granted Niang more opportunities to play. Analysts believe Niang’s 21-point performance against the Trail Blazers has earned the fourth year player more tick.
Rebounding will be one of the Sixers’ main focuses for Wednesday. According to ESPN.com, the Chicago Bulls out-rebound the 76ers on a nightly basis. The 1.5 rebound difference can be the deciding factor in a win or loss. Tobias Harris’ absence will cause players like Andre Drummond to see action early. Drummond leads the team in the rebounding category, hauling in ten per game.
Competition in the Eastern Conference has caused fans of the association to raise expectations. For the fan Philadelphia, nothing has changed. The city of Brotherly love expects the best from its sports teams. The Sixers’ performances thus far has everyone feeling confident about Wednesday’s events.