The Philadelphia 76ers have reached a pivotal point of the season at which they cannot rely on other teams' results to avoid the Play-In Tournament. Nick Nurse earns the big bucks for a reason, and it’s in moments like these that he must prove his coaching credentials. Up next for the Sixers is the Houston Rockets -- a roster boasting size and athleticism. Nurse must consider fielding Adem Bona and Joel Embiid in the same lineup to ensure the team is not physically dominated by its opponents.
A scenario in which the 76ers land in the Play-In Tournament is far from ideal. To be successful in the postseason, Joel Embiid must be healthy. Potentially adding an extra two fixtures to the schedule would only increase the likelihood of the star sustaining an injury. Nick Nurse must consider how this group of players can adapt and contain each matchup, starting with the Houston Rockets.
Adem Bona can increase the 76ers' defensive stability
Despite an increase in Embiid's mobility over recent weeks, the Rockets present a unique challenge that even the most dominant center could not stop on their own. Houston boasts a generational scoring forward in Kevin Durant and enjoys the luxury of surrounding him with talented players like Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Clint Capela.
It is a far cry from the blueprint that Nick Nurse has laid out this season, but partnering Adem Bona alongside Embiid would provide a much-needed interior presence. Bona's role in the rotation has varied this season, and when his superstar teammate has been available, his minutes have significantly reduced. However, when on the floor, the lengthy sophomore has provided energetic performances that few players on this roster could replicate.
This year, over 68 games, Bona has averaged 17.4 minutes, putting up 4.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, while shooting 60.1% from the floor. In terms of scoring, the numbers look far from impressive; nevertheless, the defensive contribution during smaller portions of the game will be critical throughout the final stretch of the season.
For Embiid to be at his devastating best, his focus should be laser-focused on offense. The 2023 MVP has already proven this season that Houston cannot formulate a plan to slow him down. On January 23, Embiid dominated the Rockets in a 128-122 overtime victory, scoring 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.
It is now do-or-die for the Philadelphia 76ers. Clinching an automatic seeding will be critical for the Sixers' longevity in the postseason. To reach this goal, the franchise must defeat the Houston Rockets. Having Joel Embiid and Adem Bona on the court would go a long way in neutralizing the strengths of their upcoming opponents.