The Sixers have a tall task in their first-round matchup versus the Raptors. Toronto took the season series (3-1) and exposed several weaknesses that are sure to be attacked in the playoffs. There are various problems Doc Rivers will surely face, but I will focus on two. One issue is team oriented, while the other is associated with a particular player. Let’s get right to them.
Sixers first round issues: Transition defense
If there was ever an Achilles heel for the Sixers, it would be transition defense. For a team that does not grab many rebounds and was owned on the glass that last time they played the Raptors, it is clear what they need to do. In fact, the 76ers are near the bottom of the league in points given up during transition at 15 per game.
Players have commented on it, and even Doc Rivers has admitted to this glaring flaw. Joel Embiid, after losing a tight game to Denver near the end of this season, said in regards to transition defense, “We’ve just been lazy, and teams are taking advantage of that.”
As a team that loves to run, Toronto will not put their strength on the shelf just to show a different approach in the postseason. It would make no sense. The Raptors are near the top of the league in transition points, averaging 15.8 per game. Therefore, they should ensure that they get out on the break as much as possible. If it ain’t broke, don’t try and fix it.
Should the Sixers shoot well, the transition defense won’t be as much of a problem, especially if Doc Rivers’ team gets back and prevents the fast break, but we know how much James Harden has struggled with his shot. Averaging 6.7 three-pointers per game, highest on the team, Harden is only connecting on 32 percent of them. A continued cold streak could mean more running opportunities for Toronto if the Sixers are not committed to stopping the ball in transition.
Needless to say, if Philly is unsuccessful at thwarting Toronto’s ability to score in transition, this nagging problem could diminish the Sixers’ chances of advancing to the next round.