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| Courtesy of Philly.com |
In a season with an overhaul of roster changes, head coach Brett Brown certainly had one of the more difficult tasks in the NBA. Losing faces of the franchise like Michael Carter-Williams and KJ McDaniels during the trade deadline can hurt a rebuilding team, especially a team as young as the Sixers.
Yet whatever group he was dealt, the tough-minded coach still managed to keep his guys in sync and get the best out of them every single game. You can't overlook the amazing job Brown has done with a youthful core, mostly comprised of depth players.
There also has to be credit given to Sixers General Manager Sam Hinkie for his daring decisions and ability to take the heat in a well-mannered way. With MCW and McDaniels gone, Hinkie and the Sixers staff found replacements in Ish Smith, Isaiah Canaan, Thomas Robinson, all of whom have contributed greatly to the second half of their season.
Even blossoming power forward Nerlens Noel talked about Smith "being the best true point guard he has ever played with," possibly a slight crack towards his former AAU and pro teammate MCW.
Since the departure of Carter-Williams, Noel's game has drastically risen. Offensively, he looks much more confident. His footwork down low in the paint has been flawless and when his team needs him most, he has stepped up to take pressure shots in tight games.
Joel Embiid, the Sixers' first round pick from last year, hasn't played all year. The Cameroonian center has been rehabbing and despite any setbacks, looks to be ready for next season.
With Noel and him as the two bigs as well as a guaranteed top 3 spot in this year's draft, the Sixers could be a force to be reckoned with. Oh, and don't forget about the tons of salary cap money they have available to spend in free agency. Don't worry Sixers fans, the future looks bright; it's better than the Knicks!
