The 3 most effective 76ers lineups so far without Joel Embiid

2. A little bit of Paul Reed, maybe?

• Tyrese Maxey 
• De'Anthony Melton 
• Robert Covington 
• Tobias Harris 
• Paul Reed 

This lineup found some success in the Minnesota game, at one point down by 17 heading into the second quarter, they were able to go on an 8-0 run to cut that deficit to 9. Certainly, missing Embiid and a shortage of quality backups on the roster, almost every lineup composition possesses fundamental weaknesses. But as far as defensively, out of all these different configurations, this lineup has shown to be one of the better defensive lineups The Sixers can rely on. 

Covington and Reed are tall and active defenders who can guard both the wing, and at times defend certain bigs. With Embiid not in the rotation, the Sixers can consider adopting a faster-paced style of play. Reed's knack for creating turnovers and swiftly transitioning down the court makes him the perfect center for a smaller, more up-tempo strategy. 

Reed can also provide the potential for a bit of spot-up shooting. While he may not consistently sink a large number of 3-pointers or command constant attention beyond the arc, this season he’s shown to be increasingly more willing to take the shot when given an open look. If he can keep improving on that, it will open a lot of opportunities for Philadelphia offensively.