What We Learned from the 76ers Preseason – a Fan’s Opinion

The Philadelphia 76ers wrapped up their 2 game preseason schedule last night with a 101-94 victory over the Washington Wizards. Although this victory wasn’t as dominate as the first game, there was a lot to be said about the way the Sixers finished. Something they struggled mightily with last season.

One thing we learned in these 2 games is that Jrue Holiday is ready to be the leader of this squad. He averaged 18 points and 5 assists. Shot 63% from the field as well as 71% from 3 point range. He did give up the ball more than he should have, but thats something I’m sure Doug Collins will get corrected quickly.

Another thing we learned is that Evan Turner is showing signs of great things to come. He nearly averaged a double-double in the two games with nearly 15 points and 8 rebounds. He won’t begin this season as a starter but I think towards the end of the year the starting shooting guard spot will be his. He also turned the ball over more than we would like.

The Sixers continue to have what could be the best benches in the Eastern Conference. With the likes of Thaddeus Young, Lou Williams, and Evan Turner, who can all start on another team, the 76ers will have no issues when it comes to depth on the team. Doug Collins has said he is striving to have the best bench in the NBA and they are very well on their way to conquering that goal.

One more thing we learned is that this team does not need Andre Iguodala to be their “go to” scorer. He averaged a mere 6.5 points in the preseason. Scoring all of those points in game 2 with 13. Andre did not score at all in game 1 of the preseason and the 76ers handled the Wizards beating them by 25. The team still does not have that 25 point per game player, but they have a handful of players who will give them double digit points game in and game out. Spencer Hawes showed some improved basketball from last season nearly averaging a double-double. He averaged 11 rebounds and 8 points through the 2 games.

The 76ers will look to start where they left off last season when they open on the road December 26. With Jrue Holiday leading the team, and having arguably the deepest bench in the league, the Sixers are sure to be contenders in the Atlantic Division. They will continue to improve and play true team basketball.


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