Ben Simmons is good at basketball
Last Seasons Record – 52-30
This Seasons Record 55-27
Here they come. The new kids on the block no more. The phrase “Trust the process” could not ring truer in the case of the 76ers. It took a while, it took many draft picks and a whole lot of tanking. But here we are, the 76ers are finally emerging as a top-tier in the East. Ben Simmons already looks like he’s reached new levels in his game, and Embiid is finally healthy and looking to wreak havoc on the entire league. All of a sudden the Atlantic Division is going to be an all slug-fest.
Key Additions and Subtractions
Well, they missed out on the LeBron James sweepstakes, but everyone knew we was Hollywood bound. But since they did miss out on LeBron you would figure they would have a backup plan. Nope. The 76ers really didn’t accomplish much in the offseason. Instead, they added veteran Wilson Chandler and rookie out of Texas Tech Zhaire Smith. Not much if you ask me, some people have high expectations for Smith and hope he can contribute in key moments. This is the year of Markelle Fultz, last year was not ideal, so by not adding any new important key pieces, they are putting so much trust and faith into Fultz.
Year Long Question – Can Philly get 75 games out of Embiid?
We all know his past. We all know that it took Embiid such a long time to finally get going but two years ago when he got going, he really put the NBA on notice. His only problem is, the man has a minute restriction and has a seriously bad history of injuries. Now all these things can change, and Embiid finally appears to be the healthiest he’s ever been. In order for this team to truly be successful, they need Embiid to at least play 75 games this season. They are going against the Celtics and the Raptors, in their own division. Embiid wants to dominate the NBA like he dominates Twitter, but there’s just no history of him playing a full season. I want more than anything for him to do so because he is one of the most entertaining players to watch in the entire league.
Fan Mindset
Okay, so I couldn’t find the Little Giants scene that has the kid walking around in foam. I’m crushed, but this will do. You get the point. Fans will be on pins and needles all year about Embiid and they will try to take every precaution possible to make sure he stays on the court this season. If fans could, after games they would take Embiid and wrap him in the most protection they could and keep an eye on him where ever he goes. I would feel the same way if I were a die-hard 76ers fan, but I’m not. Even when he plays over his minute’s restriction fans could get a little weary. Some fans might go a little bald this year.
Bold Prediction, Sponsored By Nate – Fultz is in the running for MIP
So last year was honest to god the year from Hell. First the shoulder injury, then he forgot how to shoot a basketball. Then the entire world watched him try to learn how to shoot again. That’s tough for a kid, and I honestly felt bad for the guy. You’re young, you’re the first overall pick and everyone is calling you a bust and the worst pick ever after one season. I believe that Fultz has so many more tools and can really turn it around. Ben Simmons and Embiid want him to play well and will help him elevate his game. We all want great things for Fultz and if you don’t think that way, you have a serious problem. This Philly team is going to be so much fun to watch for the next decade.