The second half of the season may not have even commenced yet, but with each passing loss, the Philadelphia 76ers seem like they are running out of time. After all the dilly-dallying on what this team’s identity really is, the possible culmination could just be a glib one — a team that severely underperformed on the heels of ill-timed injuries and across-the-board decline.
Every single person familiar with the 76ers are hoping for a stroke of genius from Daryl Morey on the trade market, but if we are being honest, placing your bets on this escapade as something more than just a band-aid solution could be futile. This squad requires a more lasting solution to its problems, not fleeting changes that could end up being gambits themselves.
Sure, while no one can probably fault Philly if they want to make marginal changes that can set them up better for a wild chase for a playoff spot, the more sustainable way for this team to really mesh better is to maximize what it already has in-house. And what better way to do that than to explore making changes, albeit internally, such as in the rotation?
The 76ers should insert Justin Edwards in the regular rotation following his breakout game
The 76ers’ latest loss to the Thunder, owners of the best record in the mighty Western Conference, pushed them further down the drain in the standings, but it was not an eyesore. First of all, they were severely undermanned. But more importantly, it gave the team an opportunity at making a silk purse out of a sow's ear.
With Philadelphia mobilizing a patchworked lineup, rookie wing Justin Edwards managed to turn in the best performance of his career. He finished the night with 25 points, six rebounds, and four assists, converting on nine of his 16 shots and draining four of his nine three-point tries.
The undrafted wing sent a strong statement with his performance. The 76ers are in dire need of shooting, and he can certainly provide that while also showcasing his strong defensive tendencies. So far, Nick Nurse has not given him much run, but at this juncture, he should seriously consider inserting him into the regular rotation.
Low-ceiling players such as Caleb Martin and Eric Gordon should have their minutes slashed, even if only by a tad, to make room for Edwards. Despite Nurse’s proclivity for veterans and proven commodities, player development has to become a thing for this franchise, and giving Edwards actual NBA minutes would allow them to run a more sustainable approach to winning games.
The Philadelphia 76ers cannot solely rely on external changes to move the needle for them in the wins column. If they are serious about making the playoffs this year and regaining their contender status in the following years, they must also realize the importance of investing in their youth, which is an easy thing to do.
Just give them minutes.