I first like to thank Jordan/Michael and the entire blog for putting all the work in and keeping us all informed. I believe everyone who visits this site, appreiciates all the hardwork. It has been a very informative and enjoyable discussing this year's draft. Keep up the great work!

As for the draft, almost everyone is dissapointed with this season's first rd pick and the 2011 draft class. I suppose we shouldn't be too surprised with the selection of Vucevic. Throughout the entire pre-draft process Vucevic, Markieff Morris and Montiejuntas were the three players that were most attached to the Sixers. Usually when there is smoke there is fire! The Sixer Front Office clearly targeted him and appeared happy to land their guy. I also heard the both the Knicks/Nets were also very high on Vucevic. We have already heard the Hawes/Jason Smith comparisons, but maybe he becomes a player like Okur, who has craved out a pretty good NBA career. Personally, I was hoping for Jordan Hamilton and his scoring ability. Bottom line is, no wing player will get any opportunity to shine with Andre still entrenched as the starter. Still having Andre on the roster is more dissapointing than the selection of Vucevic, in my opinion.

Where does the team go from here, depending if there is even a season, with the pending lockout forthcoming?

-Continue developing their young, homegrown, drafted talent. Holiday showed in the 2nd half and in the postseason, he has a very promising career ahead of him. You ask me, he is the face of the franchise now. It is now Evan Turner's time to make that next step, showed flashes throughout the season and in the playoffs, but need to push to become the starter. Both Lou & Thad look like finished products, where this is the best we are going to get out of each player. There is nothing wrong with that, as they nitched out effective roles as instant offense off the bench. Many can argue, that the Sixers bench was among the league's best last season.

-With a season under Doug Collins's belt, he fully knows his personeel now and can rid the roster of players who aren't apart of he future core. Speights is sitting on top of that list, along with Nocioni. I fully expect both players playing elsewhere when next season eventually starts. Don't laugh, I heard a rumor that the Sixers are very interested in signing Vince Carter to replace Nocioini on the roster. Do not know why they would even consider such a move, but he did play for the Nets where our front office executives had him. This is the type of free agent move the team look into.

-Team needs are pretty much the same, after the draft, although they may believe they are now set at the Center position: Go to scorer who can draw fouls and get to the FT line, more outside shooting, future replacements for both Elton Brand and Andre, as they aren't apart of the team's long-term plans. I am fully convinced Andre will be traded at some point this offseason until the trading deadline. They aren't going to dump his contract, which means a comparable player, contract will be what they receive. We already heard about Monta Ellis, but there are a few others who on the same level: Martin, Grainger, Gay, Beasley, Millsap, etc. One will eventually be dealt to the Sixers. With a loaded draft class forthcoming in 2012, maybe a lottery pick would be the best route to go in, but who knows if the front office wants to take that route.

Finally, the dreaded lockout. I have heard the NBA Collective Bargaining Agreement is a 1,000 times worse than what the NFL is going through. Several insiders believe, that next season is in serious jeopardy. Now it is way too early for that, but let's hope they are plying basketball next season.

 

 

 

As the majority are extremely upset with this yar's draft class, it shouldn't surprise anyone as this was the same Head Coach would dealt Ratliff & McKie for Stackhoue & Eric Montross! He clearly doesn't like one-dimensional players, perfers a half-court grindout, styled offense and buys into the defensive team concept. Like his style or not, that is what type of team he wants to put together. All five players on the court are two way players who need to play together as a team, to achieve success. Doug Collins is fully aware that you win many regular season games with an up and down style, but you win playoff games executing in the half-court on both sides of the ball. With the success, Doug Collins and his staff achieved with this team last season, he has earned some goodwill to be trusted that the franchise is headed into the right direction. We cannot judge these new draft additions, until they get a few years in to determine if they were mistakes or not. They are now apart of the Sixers Family, where I will support them and hope they do make a positive impact with the team. 

 

Over the last two weeks alot of rumbings about the Sixer Front Office unwillness to trade Andre for a high draft pick, obtain an expiring contract (salary dump)  or use their 16th pick on a player who needs alot of development, although may offer big future upside potential. I even heard a rumor if Biyombo is still available, they would not even consider taking him. It is quite apparent that Doug Collins and the Sixer Front Office, wants to take a step forward, not a step back, even though he will prepare the franchise better for the future. We even saw this thought process before last year's draft by first taking two players in Nocioni/Hawes to help the team right away and drafting the most ready prospect in Evan Turner for thr upside, raw prospect in Derrick Favors.  This is what will continue. I wouldn't be shocked if the team even traded their #16 pick if they obtained a veteran player who can immeditate help them. Barring that senario, look for the most ready prospects to be targeted by the team.

I have heard on multiple occassions, the team is seeking an athletic big man, a player who can draw fouls to get to the free throw line and more outside shooting. Throw in a player who can contribute immediately, I believe the team's #1 draft target is Motiejuntas. He fits all the critera. Houston is supposely very high on him as well, so who knows what will take place, but he is my projected pick for the Sixers on draft night.

As for Andre and if he will still be a Sixer by the end of the week, I say he doesn't get traded on draft night, but he will not be on the roster when next season starts. First, I believe the team will take a swingman with their 2nd rd pick, even may trade up in the back end of the 1st rd to secure one of their targets. Speights will be the player they look to rid themseleves with, maybe Nocioni, if they take a contract back. Kaman will not become a Sixer, Ellis possiblly might, if the Warriors decide to lower their demands, but a player like Martin from Houston makes more sense. Time will tell, but I think if Houston made him avaliable, he is the type of player the team would trade Andre for.

With alot of thought, personal player evaluation and listening to what the pro scouts are saying, I am leaning towards the Sixers taking a scorer over a big man with their #16 pick. Both are immediate needs, but the value should be better in the mid-teen range for a legitmate go to type scorer than a true big man:

-Three scorers have received alot of attention for the last few weeks that are expected to be selected in that 10-20 range: Klay Thompson, Jordan Hamilton & Marshon Brooks. Here are the player comparisons that have read about over the net from some pro scouts, draft sites and some GM's around the league:

-Klay Thompson-compared to Reggie Miller. Not the most athletic player, but can really shoot the basketball.

-Jordan Hamilton-Paul Pierce. Has a good all-around offensive game, but has poor shot selection and would be best served being the top scorer on his team. Very streaky.

-Marshon Brooks-Kobe Bryant. Is a pure scorer who can put the ball in the hole from anywhere on the court. Will need to play a more tradtional position and work on his defense, but has really impressed in the pre-draft workouts.

With all the recent rumors with Andre being dealt, the team would be better served to find his replacement at the SF position. Jordan Hamilton is the only true SF out of this group and would be best suited to fit with the Sixer Team.

Now, the flip side, which big men could be available at pick #16 for the Sixers to consider? Markieff Morris, Motiejunas, Vucevic, Faried. I do not expect a player like Tristan Thompson or Biyombo to make it all the way to pick #16.

Here are the player comparison and a few comments of each:

-Morris-been compared to Rasheed Wallace. His shot has some range, can play well under the basket, but struggles with his mid-range game. Good, but not great rebounder/shot blocker. One of the safest picks in the entire draft. Projects to have a better pro career than his brother Marcus.

-Motiejunas has been compared to Pau Gasol. Has the size and offensive skill set to become a productive starter in this league. His defensive shortsomings and rebounding concerns have made his stock slide, where he was projected as a top 10 pick in last year's draft.

-Vucevic has been compared to Okur from Utah. Has tremendous size and a very good offensive skill set. More of a jump shooter than a low post scorer. Isn't athletic, below average rebounder/shot blocker. You ask me, he is another Jason Smith.

-Faried-compared to Haslem from the Heat. He will make his money with his off the charts rebound abilities, but is undersized and lacks any kind of offensive game. One dimensional player, but extremely good in that area. Didn't the Sixers have a similar player a few years ago in Reggie Evans?

Out of this group of big men, I would only consider the first two on the list and probably would perfer Motiejunas over Morris due to his offensive abilities. Morris wouldn't be a bad selection either, but would only marginally improve the team early on. Morris could be a beast down the road, where Motie., is by far a more risker selection.

If this list of players was still available at pick #16, personally I would take Jordan Hamilton. I don't believe the draft will get the team their new big man, as tha will have to come in a forthcoming Andre deal.

The Cavs are open to trade discussions involving J.J. Hickson, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

Windhorst is a former top-notch Cavs beat writer, so we're taking this report seriously. Hickson was a force after the All-Star break last year, averaging 16.9 points and 10.8 rebounds. He may not bring the Cavs back the No. 2 pick in addition to their No. 1 overall pick, but they should be aiming high. Hickson is 22 and extremely talented. Jun 16, 12:10 PM Source: Brian Windhorst on Twitter

 

I saw this little tibit this afternoon from the Rotoworld Site. I do not believe that Cleveland will consider deaing their best player, but if available, the Sixers need to give them a call and hear their asking price. There has been a few pre-draft rumors involving Cleveland with liking Derrick Williams and looking to secure a mid-teen pick to select Marshon Brooks. If the team did decide to take Derrick Williams with the first pick in the draft, there is definitely a surplus at the PF position: Hickson, Williams, Jamison. They already have a solid Center in the fold and a player like Andre could really interest them. Throw in the fact they have that huge trade exception from LeBron and also have a big expiring contract in Jamison.

What type of trade could be worked out to land Hickson? Even better what package could land the Sixers Hickson and their #4 pick overall? What type of deal could the Sixers obtain Hickson with no including Andre?

-A package of Andre the team's #16 pick for Hickson & Jamison would probably become the most fair deal to make. The team would get rid of Andre's contract in 1 season when Jamison would come off the books, get an young PF with experience & upside, where the Cavs obtian that mid-teen pick that you want and add a very good, experience SF to their roster. However, the Sixers would make out like bandits with the exchange of dollars. I would jump at this deal, if it was offerred.

-The Sixers could take a big gamble and try to hold onto Andre, by dealing either Turner or Holliday instead, with their #16th to try to land Hickson, along with the 4th pick of the draft. The Sixers could solidfy their entire frontline in this senario: Hickson with Kanter or Biyombo, where Andre would still be at the SF position. Cleveland would probably ant more to make it happen.

Final Thooughts:

-If Hickson is indeed on the block the Sixer Frontoffice should make a strong offer for him. A young, true PF who has the ability to score in he post. He can hold his own on the defenive end as well. Andre and the 16th pick would be more than a fair price. It is a type of move that helps the team now and unloads a big contract in the process. Thoughts? 

It is safe to say Andre isn't apart of the team's long-term future plans, where is dying for the opportunity to play for a title contender. The last player from the original AI Sixer Era who has gone through several tough, rebuilding type seasons. He isn't getting any younger and you cannot blame him for his frustration. Never has asked to be traded, but it is clearly evident he no longer wants to be apart of this franchise.

The Sixer Team needs to rebuild the right way, not the way they have gone since AI's departure with a few high priced veterans, around their young talent that allowed them to earn a few postseason births that resulted in never advancing past the first round. This has hampered their franchise with no cap room flexibility and the loss of quality, high loterry selections. Now the franchise cannot just gut their roster and lose as many games as possible to land a high draft pick, as the team needs to sell seats and get the fans exicited about their favorite team again. It is a difficult situation for the Sixer Franchise, do you try to be as competitive as possible or do they go with a youth movement that hopefully will get this team competitive for the long haul.

Revisiting the Chris Kaman trade rumor from last week meets the team needs from both ends of the spectrum and allows Andre to go to a place where he wants to be apart of. Now if I was the Sixers, I would demand that 2012 Minnesota 1st rounder to be unprotected that the Clipper acquired to agree to the trade. Maybe the Sixers need to sweeten the pot, but I think it won't be a deal breaker to make it work. If Chris Kaman, an a possible future lottery pick is acquired it allows the team to improve on the court next season and then gives them cap flexibility in 2012 and a premium pick to fast track their rebuilding process. Who knows the team may also be able to flip Kaman before next season's deadline to receive even more for their future. The other thing to keep in mind is the new collective bargaining agreement has talked about a 1 player anmesty rule, were a team could get out of one of their bad contracts on their books. Unlikey, but if it happens Brand's deal could be gone, that could mean serious money available for the Sixers in just 1 season.

 

 

 

The Sixer Front Office will start the night generating the most buzz, when they finally agree to trade Andre in a package for Monta Ellis. The franchise sorely needs to get the fans more excited and actually come to see their favorite team play. From a basketball standpoint, the team needs a legitimate #1 scorer and a player who has the ability to get to the free throw line. Monta Ellis fills the need.

Here is my projected trade with Golden State:

Philly sends Andre, Speights, Lou Williams

Philly receives Ellis, Biedrins and pick #11

Golden State forces the Sixers to take on Biedrins contract, where the Sixers counter with wanting their lottery pick with more quality talent going out west.

 Now the Sixers have 2 1st round selections, one being lottery pick and also still have their 2nd rd pick.

At pick #11, the Sixers are crossing their fingers that Biyombo is still on the board, but also have good alternates if already taken, such as Tristan Thompson,Donatas Motiejunas, Chris Singelton, etc. They do get fortunate as Biyombo is still on the board and becomes the team's #11 pick. The trade of Andre, Speights Lou for Ellis, Biedrins & Biyombo looks exceptional.

At pick #16, if Biyombo was off the board at #11, they would of taken Nikola Vucevic, but that selection is no longer necessary. Their are hopeful one of Tristan, Singleton, Hamilton or Klay Thompson falls to their pick. Chris Singleton is the player who makes it through the guanlet. The Josh Smith Clone fits wonderfully with the new look Sixers as he is a verstile defender that allows the team to be able to live with Monta Ellis's defesnive shortcomings.

2nd rd pick-Rick Jackson. A local kid,with a strong post game that reminds me of the former Sixer from UNLV Armon Killiam. Has some issues on the defensive end, but he is a legitimate low post scorer.

Here is the new look Sixers Roster:

G-Holliday, Ellis, Turner, Meeks (Fully loaded at the positon)

F-Brand, Thad (resigned), Singleton (pick #16), Jackson (2nd rd pick), Nocioni, Brackins

C-Biedrins, Biyombo, Hawes (Resigned)

With alot of thought over the last week, with several possible trade rumors and alot of fan feedback, it has become pretty cut and dry in any future trade involving Andre:

Option #1-take on an expiring contract and obtian a lottery pick. Makes the most sense. Get Andre's contract off the books after 1 season and allows the team to draft his replacement. Here are a few examples of this trade senario:

-Kaman and the 2012 pick from Minnesota unprotected. The Minnesota pick is likely to become a lottery pick in an expected good draft class. The Clippers shed Kaman's salary and fill a big position of need.

-Jamison and this year's #4 pick. Might be too much for Cleveland to give up, especially the draft proceeding James's departure, where they want to send a strong message to their fanbase. Is Andre better than anyone the team could select at pick #4 in this year's draft? Maybe. However, the Cavs already have their two big men in place and are in need of a god wing player, which Andre certianly fits.

In both trade senarios, it has the Sixers taking on an expiring contract and receiving a high pick in return, that would hopefully, effectively replace Andre on the roster. This is probably the most ideal route for the Sixers Front Office to take.

Option #2-trade a bad contract and receive a bad one in return. This is the best opportunity to receive equal value, talent wise. Both sides of the trade will give another a proven player who can help their team out right away. Here are a few examples of this type of trade.

Andre for:

-Ellis (Golden State), Gay (Memphis), Grainger (Indy) to name a few. Each player would replace the talent vaue lost with Andre off their roster. A move that can mariginally help or hurt the team right now. Has no effect towards the future as one bad contract would still remain on the books. Really a lateral move, but a necessary move if Andre no longer wants to be apart of the franchise.

Final Thoughts

Option #1 is the right direction the team should take as it helps the team towards the future. It maybe difficult to secure a lottery pick this season or in the future, but that would be the price to acquire Andre. The team would take a few steps back, but will have the cap flexibility down the road. The team will be in a holding pattern until Brand's contract is finally off the team's books in another two full seasons. At the same time a few in-house fa's will probably be resigned (Thad, Hawes), but also Lou Williams deal expires in the same offseason as Brand's. With Andre off the books, along with the contracts of Brand, Lou the team could become major players in the free agent market in that offseason. At the same time, our current young prospects should be fully developed and in their prime seasons.   

 

Over the years, teams who have won the Title have typically had 2 legitimate superstar type players, outside of maybe the Larry Brown led Detriot Piston Team a few years ago. It is not fair to say that team didn't have legitimate stars on their roster when they won their title, but we can make a strong argument that they didn't have a top 5 superstar on their roster as well. That team's calling card was their tough defense and their ability to execute in crunchtime.    

That Piston Team was real good, but not a championship level team until they acquired that missing piece in Rasheed Wallace to put them over the top. Wallace filled their need for more inside scoring that brought the necessary balance to the team in competing against all the elite teams in the league at the time.

What goes unnoticed on that championship team was not their strong backcourt tandem or Rasheed, but their other 2 starters who made it all possible: Ben Wallace/Prince:

Ben Wallace-the true defensive enforcer in the paint. A terrific rebounder, shot blocker and lunch pailer. Had absolutely no offensive game and was a major liability on the FT Line, but his job was all about protecting the rim, which he did awfully well. It allow his teammates in front of him to take more gambles, knowing he was the last line of defense.

Prince-the skinny, long-armed kid was was an exceptional man defender and kept teams honest with his reliable three point shot. He typically drew the opponent's best scoring options and had tremendous success in defending them in space. He wasn't just a defensive stopper, a player who opponent's needed to respect on the offensive end as well. If teams were going to double one of the Piston Offensive Stars, he made them pay with his consisent shot from the outside or driving to the basket.

Using the Detriot Piston Model, a true go-to scorer isn't the immediate need for this team, it is about finding our Ben Wallace & Prince, while still developing our good, young backcourt tadem in Holliday & Turner. I believe both Holliday & Turner have the potential in becoming as good as what the Pistons had with Billups & Hamilton. No they aren't anywhere near either player as of yet, but both have just arrived in the league and still have time to improve their games. The go-to scorer will hopefully be found later on when the team is more ready to compete for a championship.

Finding the next two pieces to the puzzle should become the team's objective in the near future, starting with this year's draft. It is realistic to expect 1 piece can be secured in the draft, two if they hit lightning in a bottle or the downside would be landing none, like what the team accomplish with the selection of Speights a few years ago. Biyombo from the Congo sure looks like a Ben Wallace Clone, if not better, but will not be taken anywhere near the Sixers #16 pick, a player Nogueira seems more realistic. Depending on Andre's status, the team may receive a lottery pick which would make Biyombo more in play ot if a pick isn't involved, Andre's replacement at SF must also be found. A player like Singelton would make alot of sense.  

With all the Andre Trade Rumors heating up , I think we can use the Samuel Dalembert trade to get insight in what the Sixer Font office maybe seeking:

-Dalembert voiced his displeasure playing for the Sixers and officialy asked to be traded. Andre has not asked to be traded as of yet, but clearly isn't happy and would like to play for a contender. The Sixers didn't trade Dalembert right after his request, but only when a deal they liked came avaiiable.

-When Dalembert was eventually traded to the Kings it wasn't a salary dump or acquiring young assets to build with, but rather two veterans players who could help the team win right away. The team could of just kept Dalembert for 1 more season and allow his contract to expire. Both Hawes and Nocioni did have substantial roles with the team, where Nocioni's contract is still on the books and Hawes is a restricted FA, who the team would like to resign. The deal was all about getting beter now, rather than adding another young prospect who needs some development.

-You can make a strong arguement that the front office used the same philsophy in last year's draft by selecting the more ready Evan Turner over the raw, high upside player in Derrick Favors. Turner offerred more immeidiate returns, where Favors needed alot of development. Now many viewed Turner the better long-term player, but when the Sixers have had a huge need along their frontline, maybe this selection was about getting better now, then looking towards the future.

I strongly believe Doug Collins and the Sixer Front Office are happy with their young core, but would like to add players who can help them win games right away, not when a few bad contracts come off their books in the future. It makes alot of sense when you hear what players are being talked about involving AI2. All players discussed are quality, experienced players who can help the team immediately. Andre is a nice player, never will be a star and has a huge contract. I believe the likes of Ellis, Kaman, Turk are all good, but not star players who also have huge contracts. Outside of Kaman, whose contract expires in another season, the other two still have multiple years remaining on their deals. To get equal value or improve by dealing Andre, the team will have to take a similar player in return. One who isn't cap friendly, but one who can produce right away for the team.

The majority of us would like either to land a young, high upside prospect or get Andre's contract off the books. I don't believe the Sixer Front Office wants to do this. Throw in the fact that the team is struggling in getting fans into their arena and should have a new onwership group in place, it is more about building the best winning team now, not for 2-3 years down the line.

I wrote a fan post earlier in the week that discussed two major trades that I hoped the team would consider, the first one was acquiring Monta Ellis from Golden State. A real rumor came out today of such a possible deal, but the majority of the Sixer Fan Base wants no part of Monta Ellis. Here is my pitch, why Ellis makes total sense for the Sixer Franchise:

-In a perfect world if the Sixers did trade Andre, we are all hopeful that either a young big or a go-to scorer would be the compensation that we would be thrilled with. Ellis fits one of the critera's.

-I think many are overvaluing AI2's true value. He is a nice player, who can contribute in many different areas, but never has been elected an all-star and has a ridculous, big contract. When you see his contract ecalating close to 15 million a season, down the road, would you pay that for a defensive stopper who good ball handling skills? Throw in the fact, his offensive game has already peaked an his body has started to breakdown. This maybe the final chance the team can unload his bad contract. 

-No team will give established young talent, for a grossly overpaid, overrated defensive player. The team could look to dump his contract, but no big name free agents are interested in coming to Philadelphia. The team has two directions they could go in, try to land a lottery pick, while taking on some bad contracts to match the dollars or acquire a player who is a comparable asset to their team. Yes, you have to settle for a player who also has some concerns with his game, to complete a realistic trade.

-Monta Ellis lacks size, is a defensive liability, but is a proven, young go-to scorer. Please, stop with the Lou Williams's comparison as Lou wishes he was on the level with Monta Ellis. In my opinion, Ellis is a poor man's Allen Iverson. Gifted scorer, who always is among the league leaders in points and steals, but needs to be protected on the defensive end. Fills a huge need for that #1 scoring option that the teams sorely needs.

-Not an ideal fit for the current group of Sixer players, where the roster needs to be reshaped around Ellis's shortcomings. Team needs to mold their roster around Ellis with several defensive players and a frontcourt scorer for the future. Let's first figure out what trade senario is best for the Sixers to make with the Warriors:

-Ellis, Udoh for Andre, Speights & Meeks

-Ellis, Biedrins for Andre, Speights & Lou

I like the first option better, due to Udoh's shot blocking abilities.

Now that Ellis is in the fold, how do you mold the roster:

-I would flip Evan Turner for either Wesley Johnson straight up or see of the team could obtain Minnesota's #2 overall pick. Minnesota showed major interest with Turner in last year's draft. I do not see Turner being a real good fit at the SF position and with a plyer like Ellis who dominates the ball. If he team acquired Johnson, they use their 16th pick on a big man. If they acquire the 2nd overall pick I would lean more towards Derrick Williams, but the team could also consider Kanter as well. Who knows the Sixers may be able to grab both the #2 pick & Wesley Johnson in a package, with a few contracts coming our way.

If the team landed Udoh & Kanter or Udoh & Williams their frontcourt added a shotblocker with upside and a legitmate, frontline inside scorer. You now have a team who can legitimately compete on both ends of the floor.

 

  

We have all dissected Andre's game over the last few seasons: excellent defender, finisher on the break, point forward abilities, average scoring abiliies and a huge, bloated contract. Each season he is getting a little older, starting to breakdown healthwise and isn't a good fit with Evan Turner as they both have similar games. His value has reached it's peak and will only lessen every season. Nobody, including myself wants to see any sort of contract dump, but rather see a comparable asset that fits better with the current core group of players. 

It is clearly evident the teams needs a true Center who can protect the basket and a legitimate go-to scorer. Is Andre's current value good enough to land such a player in return? Probably not for a proven commodity, but maybe for a lottery pick. Due to the draft being really shallow, the Sixers need to concenrate their efforts in trying to land the 2nd or 3rd Overall Pick. Cleveland in all likelyhood is going to take Irving with the first overall pick, which leaves a future go to scorer in Williams and a legitimate Center in Kanter being on the board. Either player fills one of these huge needs that the Sixers face.

Minnesota has a loaded frontcourt and doesn't appear high on Kanter. When you look at their frontcourt personeel, it doesn't make much sense to draft another player in that area, but David Kahn is the same GM who selected two PG's high in the draft a few years ago, so anything is possible. Just look at how loaded Minnesota is at the forward position: Love, Beasley, Wesley Johnson, Anthony Randolph, Webster. They will have a hard time keeping all these players together, if they add another, they almost have to trade one to up a spot up on their roster. With a huge hole at SG, Andre makes alot of sense. Put him in their starting five and their are a legitmate, playoff team.

As for Utah, they are clearly in the rebuilding mode, especially dealing their franchise player to the Nets. Not a great fit as a trading partner as Minnesota, but still could come to a common ground to make a trade work with the Sixers, as they do need a SF. Okur would also most be certainly involved to match the contracts, where the Sixers would probably have to sweenten the pot and include their 1st round pick to make it happen. They would receive a quality player in Andre and have three 1st rd selctions that could speed up the rebuilding process.

We all are aware of the current team needs: a true go-to #1 scorer, a big who can protect the basket and the need for more long-distance shooting. The team can stay the coarse, draft/develop in-house talent and wait until some of their big contracts come off the books or take some chances and look to make it happen in this offseason. Here are two trades that could change the culture and vastly improve the team from being a low-seeded playoff qualifier:

 

Trade 1: Time to get our true #1 go-to scorer, shot blocker

Philadelphia sends: Andre, Speights, Lou Williams

Golden State sends: Monta Ellis, Udoh,

Why Golden State would make this trade: Jerry West wants more size and defensive prowess in his backcourt. He has stated that the great scoring has given antthing to his new franchise. Would the Warriors also put Udoh on the table? Not sure, but they already have a quality starting Center on their roster. 

Why Philly would make the trade:Ellis instantly gives them a true go-to scorer. With Holliday size and defensive abilities/upside they can make up for Ellis's size on the defensive end, while allowing Holliday to guard the 2 position. Monta's contract is comparable to Andre's, actually a little less. Udoh is that player they seek to protect the basket. Still very raw, but has good upside potential.

Trade 2-Planning for Brand's Depature in another season.

Philadeplhia Sends-Evan Turner, #16 pick

Minnesota Sends-#2 Overall Selection, Johnny Flynn

Philadelphia Selects-Derrick Williams

Why Minnesota would make this trade: they already have two quality players manning their forward positions, along with last year's top 5 pick in Wes Johnson behind them. It is no secret that the Timberwolves were extremely high on Turner last season and have a huge need at their 2 guard position.

Why Philly would make this trade: Derrick Williams is a legitimate, frontcourt scorer who has the verstility to ply either forward position. They can start him at the SF spot intilally, but utlimately groom him to take over for Elton Brand at the PF starting spot. Can score in the low-post, has some range on his shot and is highlly athletic. When you here Olsen the former Arizona Head Coach compare his athelitism with Andre, you know what type of athlete you will be receiviing. Johhny Flynn is just a throw-in due to the numbers the Timberwolves have at the position, now with Rubio in the fold. The Sixers would have two similar, backup scoring guards, where they could move one of them for another pick, if they chose.

 Updated Lineman after 2 trades:

PG-Holliday/Flynn

SG-Ellis/Lou

SF-Willaims/Nocioni

PF-Brand/Young/Brackins

C-Udoh/Hawes

 

When you watched the Sixers play last season, their success was due to their improvement on the defensive end and exceptional in the offensive turnover category. Pretty simple, play good defense and limit you're turnovers and you are always in the game, but you also need to be able put the ball in the basket. Too many times, we have even the Sixer team get huge leads, but go on those long-scoring droughts that allow their opponent back into games. The team seems to settle too much on jump shots, aren't aggressive going to the basket and do not have a true go to scorer to end these long droughts. The team also doesn't have that player who they can go to at end of games, who can consisently be able to score, when needed.

We all want a Center who can protect the basket, but the need of a true go to scorer is higher on the priority list. The team has proven they can defend the best teams in he league on an consisent night to night basis, but do not have enough offense to compete against the better teams in the league. Until they improve upon this weakness, they will continue to struggle in closing teams out.

Not sure if there is such a player in this year's draft, outside of a big maybe in Derrick Williams, but they need to acquire one in the offseason. I am not saying we need a superstar, but a player who is a legitmate scorer who is better than what we currently have. Ellis, Gay, Grainger all are good examples: good scorers, but not considered superstar type players, who can be acquired for the right price. With one of these players, along with our young core, it would put the team in better position to compete against the big boys, than a Center who can protect the basket. Both are needed, but the scorer is needed more.

 

With Boston's recent success with their big three and now Miami following their same path, teams will look to put together their own super teams. If this indeed continues to take place, the league will have 3-4 dominate title contending teams, with all other franchises becoming irrelevant once each season begins. This is not good for the league, but they can do nothing about it, especially with the current rules in place. I think many fans and the league are hoping that Dallas beats Miami in the Finals, but the damaged has already been done. It is a copycat league, as teams will use the same formula in hopes of achieving success. We already have seen a Knick team try to accomplish what the Celtics did when acquiring Kevin Garrett: trade away all their young, developed prospects for that 1 big star. Minnesota hasn't sniffed the playoffs ever since and Denver is headed down the same path. You can blame the system, which takes the money out of the equation with those maximum contracts. Yeah, the league put in those Bird Rights rules from preventing stars leaving their original teams, but franchises have used that sign and trade loophole to get around the rule. Fully guaranteed contracts and unable to take on a portion of a contract traded away as handcuffed teams, suchs as the Sixer franchise. If you sign a player to a big extension or fa contract and the player fails to live up to the deal, it sets back the franchise for the entire life of the deal. Enough ranting for the time being.

As constructed, the Sixer Team simply cannot compete against one of these super teams. Do not have one legitimate star and no team will hand them one, anytime soon. Will Orlando become the next Minnesota or Denver? Possiblly, but Howard will not go to a team who isn't a legitmate contender and doesn't have a star to pair up with. The only path to success for the Sixer Franchise is building through the draft and developing their picks in hopes of gromming an in-house star. Luck, good coaching and staying away from the trainer's room is needed to make it happen. Will be a long, frustrating process, but it is the only way to make it happen.

The Sixer Team has two young backcourt players to build around in Holliday & Turner, everyone else is expendable. Team must rid themseleves of contracts and players who are not in their long-term plans. Put together a young nucleus and let them grow and develop together. Once they are on the cusp of being a legitimate contender, then you look for that one star who can put you over the top. Like the Lakers with Gasol or even Detriot with Rasheed Wallace.

Offseason Goal

Find that big man who is a long-term solution. If it is that Turkey kid Kanter, or a young, high upside player on another team, make it happen. What ever player is acquired or drafted, there is time to develop him as the team continues building the team and has such players like Brand/Hawes who can hold the spot warm at least another season or two. I wouldn't worry about overpaying a little bit, especally if it doesn't involved our two young guards being shipped out.  

Both current conference championships are far from over, but it is looking more and more like a Miami/Dallas Final. When looking at the two teams who aren't expected to advance, their maybe a good match with the Sixers and AI2:

-Many believe Andre could flourish if he is the third best option on a championship, level team. He is a tremendous man defender, can finish and has legitimate point forward abillities.

-It is safe to say, that both OKC & Chicago maybe just 1 player away from being a legitmate championship contender.

-Both teams have elite PG's who carry a major load in scoring points for their respective teams, Adding another player who can assume some of their ball handling responsibilities makes alot of sense. If they do not have to bring the ball down the floor on every occassion, it allows them to remain fresh. We witnessed first hand, how more effective Iverson was when Eric Snow took over some of the ball handling responsibilies away from him.

-OKC has Mo Cheeks on their staff, along with Brooks having ties with the Sixer Organization, being a former player for the team. Cheeks was instrumental while as the Sixers Head Coach in getting Andre to play the point forward position for the team. Andre had a tremendous run with team USA, playing with both Durant & Westbrook. OKC acquired and signed their long-term Center with Kendrick Perkins and have a qulaity PF in Nick Collison, which could make Ibaka available. Ibaka is the type of young, big man that the Sixers covet. A package involving Andre, maybe our #1 pick to obtain Ibaka and other contracts, could make sense for both teams.

-As for Chicago, they know if they are going to make it out of the Eastern Conference, they must get through the Miami Heat. How does any team matchup against the Big 3? Deng can hold up defenively, but the team lacks that other defender, who isn't an offensive liability on the floor. Their young Euro Rookie Center, Askin has been receivng all the minutes at crunchtime over Noah. Andre is a Chicago native and would absolutely love to play for his hometown team. Now I am not sure the Bulls would consider dealing Noah for a package starting with Andre, since they wouldn't include him for a deal that could of netted them Carmelo, but after this year's playoff run, they may consider such a deal.

I think the majority of Sixer Fans are happy with the return success the team had last season. Rebounded from a terrible campaign in 2010 that led a post season birth, but yet couldn't advance past the first round in the playoffs. We saw similar success when Andre Miller came over in the AI trade with Denver. A tough, high energy team that couldn't compete against the elite teams in the playoffs. Good enough to win a game or two in a series, but not good enough to advance. We can argue that this group of players have hit their peak as a team, competitive, but not a titile contender at all. As long, sufferring fans, making the playoffs isn't good enough any longer. The bar must be set higher. When you see young teams strive in the postseason, it makes you even more dissapointed with this team.

With the arrival of our new Head Coach and General Manager, it was a year to evaluate the players. Which players are apart of the team future core and which need to go. A few players proved their worth while others failed to make the most of their opportunities. Now the front office has a handle of their team roster, it is finally time to fast track the roster to compete against the elite teams.  It means less young, developmental players, but finding more experienced veterans who fit their system best. Not an easy task, when the team has little flexibility with their high cap number. It can even get worse, if the salary cap is reduced with the new collective bargaining agreement. The other end of the spectrum, even if the team had cap space, would any elite free agent want to come to Philly?

Before we discuss ways how to improve our roster, here are the team needs as I see them, of coarse, many might have different viewpoints, feel free to debate them if you like:

-A legitmate go-to scorer. Yes, the team needs to find a way to get their hands on a superstar player.

-Frontcourt enforcer who can protect the basket: elite rebounder/shot blocker defender.

-A real sharpershooter can has a mult-dimensional game, not a one trick pony.

Some ideas of improving the team's roster:

-Don't be scare off on bad contracts. If the team is able to trade for a good player for their system, don't shy away from a deal if you need to assume a bad contract to make it happen. As I said before, even with cap room, I do not see any elite players wanting to sign with the Sixers. The team needs to be willing to do what it takes to improve their roster.

-Andre has to go now, before it is too late and his trade value plummets. A very good, all around nice player, but is a third option on a championship level roster. Team desperately needs more scoring, where Andre has proved to not be that type of player, Rather settles for all those rainbow, jump shots than drive to the hole and use his off the charts atheltic abilities. First year in which he missed several games due to injury, maybe a warning sign for years ahead. Team doesn't need the cap room, but a player who can help the team right away. His defensive prowess and point forward abilities is still very attractive for teams on the cusp from competiting.

-Trade their 1st rd pick for an experienced veteran. As I said above, the team has enough young players, they need players could can contribute now, not three years down the road. They do not hold a premium selection this year, but a team out there will be interested, especially if they want to get out of a bad contract from a player who isn't in their future plans.

-Elton Brand is still on the team's books for two more seasons, If I stand correct. Too bad it wasn't just 1 season, while teams positon themselves for the Dwight Howard sweepstakes. He is still a quality player, but not a siperstar any longer. Either the team can wait another season to deal his expiring contract, keep him in the fold or take a gamble on a similar type contract that another team is willing to shed. Most likely have to keep him for another season, maybe two.

-Do not be afraid of trading one of you're young, future core players if it nets you a superstar or improves the team today. If say a Chris Paul could be had for a package with Holliday or Turner, you need to consider such a deal. The question that the front office needs to ask: will one of their young prospects become better or be able to match the production of the player that they would be obtaining.

Final Thoughts

Team has some difficult decisions to make starting this offseason. Taking the roster to the next level will force the team to take some calculated gambles in hopes of improving the team. Just making the postseason is no longer good enough, it is time to make it happen!

 

  

Let me first state, it was been enoyable watching this team have some success, even against some lesser teams over the last few weeks. The team has made some strides, where the personeel's needs are starting to take better shape. In my opinion, the two starting needs that need to be addressed are SG & PF, for this team to get to the next level:

-Interior defense is really bad, not a surprise to anyone. Hawes looks like a very skilled, offensive, big man who plays well away from the basket. Yes, he has his major defensive shortcomings, but if we could better protect him, he could be the long-term answer at the Center position for the team. A true power forward has been a need for this team for sometime, they tried to address the need unsuccessful with the Brand signing, drafting Speights/Young, nothing has worked. All three are good, but not great offensive players who struggle on the defensive end and aren't premium rebounders/shotblockers. We know Brand isn't going anywhere, but the likes of Speights & to a lesser degree Young should be put on the trading front, to see what value they may return.

 

-The other glaring need in my opinion, is at SG. This is another area where the team has had no answers for the last few seasons.

 Moving Andre from SG to SF, was the right move to make. His skills set ideally fits that position. Many of us, want Andre dealt, not for his poor play, but more so for filling the need of a big man, either at PF or C. If the team does indeed deal Andre at some point, they must get a young, big man in return or the trade will be a big downgrade for the team. Andre isn't the problem, as he is one of the better SF's around the entire league.

Is Jodie Meeks the answer as a starter? Very good offensive player, but in my opinion better suited for instant offense of the bench. His outside range has really helped the starting unit out, but not sure if he can handle defending the elite Guards around the league. Both Lou Williams and Meeks appear to be carbon copies to some degree, both offensive players, who has issues on the defensive end, where one is the better shooter and the other is the better slasher. I believe you do not need both players, as one could fill the need as isnstant offense off the bench. Due to his contract, Lou Williams should be the one who gets dealt at some point. 

Finally, what to do with Evan Turner? After almost two months through the season, we can all state now, Turner is a total bust , considering he was the #2 overall pick. The #2 overall pick who is bury on the bench and looks toatlly lost on the court. Early indications suggest he isn't a SG, but more of a PG who needs to have the ball in his hands. It doesn't mean he could learn how to play off the ball, but he needs alot of development to do so. When you think about his draft slot, development is never a good thing to say. Here lies the problem? You already have a young, fast rising starting PG on your roster in Holliday, if Turner is better suited at the PG postion, one needs to go, where the team still needs to address the starting SG position. The team will be patient with Turner, but as each day passes, his value keeps on moving downward. No way the team deals Holliday to open up the spot for Turner, thus Turner either learns how to play off the ball or becomes the PG off the bench.

Can the team address one of these needs at the trading deadline? Possiblly, but unlikely, unless Andre is used to make it happen. O.J. Mayo is out there to be taken, but I am not sure if he is the answer at the SG position or if we have enough to acquire him, without Andre involved in the deal. The most realistic tradable players at the deadline include Speights, Lou Williams, Thad and some of our expiring players. Maybe the team moves Speights to the Suns for Earl Clark. Both are underperforming first round players, who could use a change of scenery.  

 

 

It has been one of the most frustrating seasons wtaching this franchise inventing new ways how to lose on a game to game basis. They are a competitive team, but just continue to fall short every game. It sure looks like the team is headed for a top 5 pick once again. Maybe it is a time to give an old friend a call- Billie King.

We all know that our former GM, thought his young draft selections were better than they actually were. It is time to see if he is interested in reacquiring any of them at this point in time. The Nets are headed into a new stadium in the near future and must start winning now, in hopes of filling their new building. They just have one player who they call see to the public in Brook Lopez, why not give them another. You know what player I am talking about-AI2.

This isn't just another trade Andre post, but lookong at future assets to acquire, along with shedding payroll in the process. Favors is the target to obtain. A frontline player who the Sixers sorely need, A player who is in his developmental stage, but is a future star in this league. The Sixers can give the Nets a package of immidiate ready players who can help their team, this season. Who knows that may even use Andre to secure Carmelo in a future trade as well.

What type of package would interest both teams?

I believe King would be interested in these three players: AI2, Thad & Lou Williams. Give them all three in a package that would net the Sixers Favors, Troy Murphy (expiring), Terrence Williams (banished to the developmental league, due to character concerns). Not sure if this trade is possible, cap wise, but makes alot of sense for both teams. From the Net standpoint, they receive a secondary star in Andre, two good offensive, young role players. As for the Sixers, they replace one core player who another, while shedding two undesirable contracts off their books, along with a very talented, problem child who is a boom or bust candidate.

 

 

When I watch this team, they are competitve for the most part, but they are unable to finsih time after time. In my opinion, the lack of a star, go to player is what is really lacking. Alot of good, complementry players, but no real stars within this roster. The team needs to secure that type of star player ane build around him. Easier said than done! Many teams are in the same situation as the Sixer team.

How to do acquire such a player?

-Draft

-Once every couple of years, a player can be found in the lotterry at the top of the draft, such as a Kevin Durant. These type of players do not come around too often, This year's crop, doesn't appear to have that type of player, but it is way too early to be said.

-Trade

Not many teams will trade away their young, superstar players, unless they believe once he becomes a FA, they will not be able to retain him. A player like Chris Paul or Carmelo Anthony fits this mold. Neither are available at this point or would be willing to be apart of a rebuilding team. Two other boarderline superstar players, maybe available for the right price, but neither make you think, he is the player to build around-Grainger, Roy (injury).

-Free Agency

We have seen a few young stars leave via free agency recently. With the current NBA Cap structure, the total contract value is taken out of the equation, with sign and trade deals. These type of players what to play for a winning team, not to become the star for another franchise.

All this being said, how can the team find their superstar to build around?

If can wait year after year and hope you land that next great player in the lotterry or you can make the team more attractive by having some success. When the Sixer team, post AI had mild success and overachieved, every top free agent was interested in signing with the Sixers. Unforunately, the Sixers gave a maximum contract to a player who didn't fit their style and had a recent injury history in Elton Brand. One bad signing, took all the mild success and attractivness away from the franchise. Nothing can be done, until the contract comes off the books. Achieve mild success again, but do not make the same mistake. Find ways to improve the team for this season, in hopes of making this franchise more attractive to sign with. Bring in some veterans as short-term stop-gaps to bring back the winning culture, such as what Andre Miller did for the franchise a few years ago. If the mild success can be achieved again, finding that superstar player to come to the Sixers, will be feasible.

I am really not concerned that the team just has 2 wins this season. This year is all about determining which players are truely apart of the future core and which need to be replaced. After slow starts from our young, future backcourt tandem in Holliday & Turner, I am encouraged that they will be the long-term fit the team sorely needs. Pleasantly surprised how Elton Brand as started the season, if healthy, will be our best offensive player, but also is a player who could interest a team for a playoff run, which couldn't be said, a few weeks ago. Lou Williams has done well as the instant offense off the bench, but isn't Jodie Meeks the same type of player, costing alot less? Love the emotion and high effort that Nocioni (Spelling) brings on a game to game basis. AI2 looks very unmotivated and disinterested with the team. Will his exit stategy begin in the next coming weeks? Speights/Young in my opinion, do not look like future core players for this team.

 

Doug Collins is trying to bring back that winning mentality to this franchise. It will take time, but I see the team making improvements from game to game. Hopefully, leaders will emerge and will make their teammates accountable for their actions on and off the court. As the season moves on, the organization must always seek future building blocks that they can realistically obtain. No salary dumps, such as the rumored deal with the Hornets, but trading assets for quality, future building blocks. My hope is that the Carmelo talks start up again, where the Sixers can get involved to secure one building block this season, such as a Derrick Favors. Ibaka, Jordan are also two players that I have been keeping an eye on, both are players who intrigue me.

Team must continue the evaluation process, without worring how many win's they may earn, but keeping focused with their long-term building plan in mind. If a transaction makes them take a few steps back, but a big leap forward in the future, they need to be considered.

On the day Samuel Dalembert was traded to the Kings many were upset of what the team received in return. Was the trade a cap savings move, was it to get rid of a disgruntled player, was it getting compensation for a player who would leave via free agency after this season? Nobody truely knows, but what the team lost was a defensive presence in the paint who was an above average defensive rebounder & shotblocker. Yes, Dalembert would never been a offensive weapon for this team or have a high basketball IQ, but leaves the team with absolutely nothing underneath our basket. I wouldn't be surprised if the team is dead last in the rebounding, shot blocking statistics at the end of the season. Finding such a Center isn't easy to find and they do not come along to often to draft either.

When you look at the current Sixer Roster, it has an abundance of tweener wing players. How many darn small forwards, two guards does this team actual have? I know it is extremely early, but Evan Turner doesn't look like a #2 pick overall in the draft. If the team would of kept Daly and drafted either Favors or Cousins, the team would look that much better. I know this is a season to evaluate our roster, but it appears to me that the team may have taken steps backward, not forward. It is going to be a very long season with another year without hope of doing anything. Frustrated like the rest of the fan base.

Being away for a few weeks, due to the start of the football season. Alot of rumblings going on that Carmelo Anthony maybe traded in the near future and the Sixers may even be a player in the dealings. My interest is not about acquiring Carmelo, but to obtain pieces back that can help our team this season and for the future.

In my opinion, Carmelo only wants to play for either the Knicks or Bulls. I would not make a deal if I am the Nets, Sixers, Warriors, unless a contract extension has been made prior to the deal. Top players already have shown that they will take less money elsewhere it be on a winning team. I also believe the new Nugget Management is hestiant to deal their superstar and hope they can resign him before he becomes a free agent. Now if they do indeed trade Carmelo, the other assets with the Nuggets also could be made available, as the team starts their rebuilding job.

Reports have stated that the Bulls will not include Noah in any deal involving Carmelo Anthony. The Nuggets reportely told the Knicks that they need a 1st round pick to make a deal happen, thus this is where the Sixers can come into play:

-If the Sixers are to give up a #1 pick (most likely a lottery pick), along with dealing their best player in Andre, high compensation is needed in return. Andre's value has risen since the end of the season, due to his strong performance with the USA National team.

-What do the Sixers need the most? Frontcourt Center/PF and a wing player who has range with his shot.

How about a trade that would net the Sixers Gallinari & Nene. Gallinari is a young offensive player who has tremendous scoring potential, along with great range on his shot. Nene is a true Center who is a very good rebounder, shot blocker which the Sixers sorely need. A year away from free agency and a injury history, but a good player to take a chance on.

What does everyone think? Would the Sixers be given too much compensation up? Would the other teams be satisfied in what they receive in return?

 

 

As we have heard this week, Chris Paul is angling an exit strategy from the New Orleans Hornets. Paul has stated he would like to form another Super Team to challenge the Miami Heat. Inside sources reportely saw Paul make a toast at Carmelo's Wedding recently that he would like to play with both Carmelo & Amar'e in the near future for the NY Knicks. Alot of unknowns right now: Future Collective Bargaining Agreement, Hornet's control Paul for the next two seasons and Carmelo has a big contract offer that is on the table. My question to the Sixer Nation is, why cannot we form a Super Team in Philadelphia?

Before everyone shoots down the idea, let me try to make a case of it to happen:

-The Hornets will seek young talent and some of their bad contracts in any deal for Chris Paul, if they indeed put him on the market. The Sixers have an ace in the hole with young talent-Evan Turner. Now taking back bad contracts as well maybe difficult to due, but not impossible. Okafur is the player who the Hornets would like to rid themselves of, by the way plays a position of need for the Sixers. A third team maybe needed, to furfill the contracts coming off the books by the Hornets. A package starting with Evan Turner will get their attention.

-Wouldn't Paul just opt out when his contract expires? Always a possibility, but not if you bring in another superstar, such as Carmelo Anthony. Now a deal with Carmelo will be much more difficult to complete, but a package starting with AI2 is a good start, but we would probably need to add a little more to get it done. We could use New Orleans in a three way to make it possible. If Carmelo does what Paul is expected to do, they will seek the best compensation for Anthony's services.

-With only Paul & Carmelo, where is the third superstar? Who knows what the team would look like if these two difficult acquistions were ever made, but luring that third elite superstar free agent will not be diffult to do, if two already are on board. Who knows, it could be Dwight Howard down the road or someone else sooner! My point is getting these two players together will make it happen.

It is time for Sixer's Management to take a big chance and go all out to make this a reality. Once one domino is in place, the other two will become easier to obtain. I know I am shooting for the skys for this to happen, but why can't the Sixers go get Chris Paul?

Sometime before the draft I made a fan post regarding how the Sixers should try to use the Detroit Piston Building Model moving ahead with the franchise. As we all recall, the team Larry Brown Coached to the NBA Titile had a very good collection of players, but no true superstars. Some people may debate that statement, but in my opinion, they didn't have that all-world player leading them, such as a Kobe Bryant. Billups was agruablly their best player who had a very well rounded game. What made that team successful? Excellent defensive team, who executed their half-court offense extremely well, especially in crunch time. They had the enact to make that one play late in the game to seal the victory.

Taking a look at their starting five, it doesn't look that scary:

C-Ben Wallace

PF- R. Wallace

SF-Prince

SG-Rip Hamilton

PG-Billups

Excellent backcourt with a frontcourt that had a defensive minded Center, a true low post scorer who had an outside game and a defensive Small Forward who can hit the occasional shots behind the arc.What made they extremely tough was their team defense. Both Billups and Hamilton were very good man defenders, Prince was the long-armmed player who had the abilty to deflect many passes, but the big anchor to the defense was Ben Wallace. He was the protector of the paint, which allowed his teammates to gamble and shoot the passing lanes. At this time of his career Wallace was one of the best shotblockers and rebounders in the entire league. Not a option at all on the offensive end, but a key player to their half-court defense.

The biggest thing we have heard since Doug Collins became our new Head Coach is team defense. He wants all his players to leave it on the floor and give maximum effort. We have heard that players who do not defend, will not see time on the court. I think we need to see it, to believe it! Team Defense is extremely important aspect of an successful team, Each and every season, the NBA Champions are elite defensive teams, which would explain why the Suns & Warriors never sniff the Title. Yes, you need to put the ball in the basket, but if you make it difficult for the other team to score, it makes winning that much easier. Last year's Sixer team was one of the worsts Defensive Teams in the league!

Going back to the NBA Finals Team that was led by AI, they were one of the best defensive teams in the entire league. Would you think a starting lineup of: Ratliff/Mutombo, Ty Hill, Lynch, Iverson & Snow would be in the Finals competing for an NBA Championship? Not me, but that is exactly what happened. Defense is the key to success, period!

Taking a look at our current roster, the team is extremely far away from competing for a championship, anytime soon. They need to have a plan and stick by it. If they are to become that tough defensive team, they need to shape their roster to fit that type of system. This season is for evaluation of which players fit the system best. The Goal is to be ready in three seasons to be a true contender. That may seem unrealistic, but that is their ultimate goal.

Looking at the current Sixers Core and comparing what the Pistons had, we have a few pieces in place, but need several more players to complete the building job:

-Holliday/Billups-Billups was a late bloomer, didn't have much success until in the right system with his third team. Holliday has that defense base, but needs to improve his offensive game, Still under 20, I expect a big breakout year from him this season, similar to the other former UCLA Guard in Westbrook.

-Turner/Hamilton-Rip also didn't hit his stride until he was put into the right system that the Pistons employed. A great, tireless, mid-range shooter who was very good off screens. Not known to be a great 3 point shooter, but deadly inside the arc. There is no reason why Turner cannot evole into this type of player. Both aren't the most athletic Guards out there, but the have the ability to be the #1 scoring options for their team.

-Andre/Thad/Prince-this is a little more cloudy. Thad's skill set is more similar to Prince's, compare to Andre. Andre is a better all-around player, but isn't a #1 Scoring Option or Superstar either. In my opinion, Thad will be the future SF for the team for year's to come, where Andre will be playing somewhere else in 2011. Young has the ability to defend, hit the occassional outside shot and run the floor. He also will have a much smaller contract as well.

-Speights/R. Wallace-Speights has a similar game to Wallace, although not even closed to the finished product that Wallace was when he came to the Pistons. A good post-up game, shooter behind the arc and servicable defensive player. Speights has a long-way to go, to even be in the same stratsosphere as Wallace. He must at least give effort on the defensive end and have a better shot selection. He either becomes Elton Brand's future replacement, scorer off the bench or playing in another city.

Ben Wallace/?-This is a huge hole for the Sixers team. There isn't a bigman who can protect the basket, rebound the ball, what so ever. The team needs to find this type of player to anchor their defense. If it is a better version of a Reggie Evans type player, a Variejo from the Cavs or even a Howard in Free Agency (Pipe Dream). We aren't seeking a great offensive Center, but a lunchpailer who will do all the dirty work. Maybe a guy like Nene or Kaman would fit the bill.

Bench-Hunter/Lou/Meeks/Green-Lindsay Hunter was that bench player who brought instant offense onto the floor. One out of the three players listed should emerge to fill that future role. Additional defensive minded role players and shooters also need to be added down the road.

The Pistons built their team to the point of being one player away, where they acquired Wallace as the final piece. The Sixers first need to get there first. Assemble a team who is a hard out in the postseason and that type of senario can happen, but that is not in the future this season.

I would get rid of all players who do not fit their system moving forward. If there is a deal for Lou Williams, Green, Kapono make it! What I would do is deal Andre for that Defense Minded Type Center if a trade can be made. If it is that Nene, Kaman, Varejo, it needs to be done. We can land that final piece when the team develops and has some success, but it is time to move ahead with the plan. As in three seasons, the cap situation clears up and the team will be in position to finally have the resources to add talent in hopes of becoming contenders!

Looking at the last three seasons, the Cowboy Offense in my opinion, is all or nothing. Either everything seems to click or nothing at all, there is no middle ground. Why does this seem to happen?

Few Examples of what I have seen:

Last Season:

at Green Bay-early drive with a failed 3rd down conversion, which leads to a missed field goal by our former kicker in Nick Folk. Lost Columbo early on, but it doesn't explain why the offense completely shuts down. Offensive Line struggles mightly, Roy Williams had a bad fumble, many three and outs, penalties and unfavorable calls. Green Bay has a good defense, but not that good to in essence shutout our offense for the entire game. In my opinion, the team failed to overcome their early struggles and a snowball effect happened the rest of the way. Not saying the team quit, but their play got worse as the game wore on.

at Kansas City-we all remember the terrible start to this game in the first half. Another snowball effect occurred, with many back to back negative plays happening in a short period of time. If I recall, this was the game where Crayton muffed a punt and the defense was drawn offside three consecutive plays. I believe Jay Ratliff made a key field goal block to gave the team the momentum their surely needed, as well as the arrival of Miles Austin. Early struggles, but the team was able to overcome them when they won the game in overtime. The turning point of the season, in my mind!

Washington-this was the game after the Green Bay loss, if I remember correctly. Struggled badly all game long to score any points. A few lucky breaks and the team survived when Spencer intercepted a pass. Once again, a good defense, but not a defense who could shutout our offense, especially at home.

NY Giants-I hate to bring up this game as it was the first one in the new stadium and being from NY City. Tony Romo's worst game of the year. Terrible decisions, that led to a few turnovers. Once again, the snowball effect occurred with many back to back bad plays that made it difficult to overcome. The Cowboys just put this game on the silver platter for the Giants. From a bad interception, to a fumble by Felix on a KO Return, to that crazy interception off Witten's leg, right before half. When you rush over 250 yards and lose, turnovers must of been the reason why.

Briefly-Games Prior to last season:

Philly at home-the game Westbrook sat down inside the Cowboy 5 yard line, to seal the win. Offense couldn't do anything what so ever. Saw for the first time how bad Cory Proctor was on the field when he replaced an injured Gurode.

at Detriot-the game where they simply wouldn't allow TO to get the ball. Witten had over 10 catches. Crazy late drive, sealed the win.

Washington-this was the game that the so called Super Bowl favorites showed us that they weren't as good as advertised. Terrible loss, where Romo forced the ball to TO, due to him not getting many opportunities the week prior in Green Bay. The beginning of the end to the TO era.

My Conclusions:

What I have seen with our offense the last few years, has been a unit that really struggled when they can't get going early on in the game. More so the last two seasons, but definitely a real problem for the team. We saw the team have the ability to respond against the bad teams, but unable to do so against the better teams in the league. When the team went on a good run at the end of last season, they got off fast and played ahead in every win they had. In the past, many observers called this team frontrunners. They seemed to come unglued when things weren't going their way early on, a look of shell shocked players who got worse as the game wore on. In my opinion, it is all about mental toughness, leadership and coaching that leads to this. This season will be defined on how this team fights through this streaky ways. The personeel is set, it will come down to the mental aspect to get them over this hurdle. This is the last obstacle that they must overcome to reach their goal of winning a Championship. Thoughts?

 

When the news broke this afternoon that Billy King will now run the NJ Nets organization, the first thought that came to my mind was who does he want off the Sixers roster? Many former executives/coaches like to bring to firmiliar people around them, especially early on with their new position. I remember a few years ago after Jim O'Brien was let go by the Sixer Oranization, stating (King) that he overvalued his young prospects with the team. We know there are several players who are still on the sixers roster that Billy King drafted. Will we see a minor or major trade take place in the next coming weeks with the NJ Nets? The likes of Lou Williams, Willie Green, his last draft class in Young, Smith or possiblly Andre could be in play. Who would the Sixers want to target on their roster? Derrick Favors! I heard before free agency started, Favors was drafted more for an attractive tradable asset, who knows if they could pry him away from them. If they want immediate success with their new regime, they  may decide to deal him and take Andre's contract off our hands in the process. Maybe just wishful thinking in my part, but something to watch the next coming weeks.

Now that the 2010 Big Free Agents have all been signed, here are my thoughts of what happened and why I believe the system is needs to be fixed:

The NBA was hurt by the Lebron circus that took place the last few weeks, that ended with him on national TV stating he is leaving his hometown team for greener pasters in Miami. First let me state that Lebron James hasn't ever won a Title in this league. This whole presentation was to make himself bigger than the entire league that employs him. Never have we seen such a unprofessional, arrogant move take place in sports, period! Does Lebron James understand the ramificiations of what took place? He has become the most hated sports figure overnight. Does he realize that fans in Ohio and even in Akron will not kiss his feet anylonger? Does he realize that great players meet challenges, not run away from them? Does he realize that Miami isn't his town and Wade is the player who brought home a titile for them? By not even giving his former team, which happens to be his home state, any notification where he was playing next year, just shows what is wrong with sports today.Lebron has been treated like a god, all around him since he played in high school. Never subject to any critism and accountable for his own actions. From not shaking hands after losing two seasons ago, from quitting this year in the playoffs, face the facts you aren't as good as you're people say you are. Mark my words, in 2-3 seasons he will pull the same stuff with his new team, when Wade gets all the credit! Last note about Free Agency, who made Chris Bosh into the next Karl Malone? When I here people state he is a top three big man in this league, I laugh!

The NBA system is just like our present day economy: not a even playing field, with a system in place, where the rich get richer and the poor get poorier. How do you allow such things to take place? Hinrik for a conditional 2nd round pick? You ask me this is a pure salary dump! Former players give sweetheart deals to their former teams-Lakers & Celtics. You going to tell me that trading the Gasol brothers was a fair deal, especially for a GM looking to retire? The other deal where Minnesota took a bag of balls for Kevin Garnett? Please! Do not tell me that the lottery has not been fixed in year's past as well. Ewing to the Knicks, Lebron to the Cavs? Maybe the ref who went to jail was speaking the truth when he stated to prolong plaffoff series.

How can you allow teams to use loopholes in your system to your advantage? Sign and trades that never bring even compensation back. Luxury Tax, big market teams have the revenue to handle additional costs, where other markets would need to make serious concessions to do so. When you sign a free agent, why no mandatory compensation? Why do you have to eat an entire contract, cap wise if the player doesn't work out? Why can't you have another team pick up a portion of the salary via trade? Why do you impose a maxium player salary, when every marginal player seeks that deal. Yes, some blame needs to go on the owners, but why have such a thing in place? Why have Bird rules in place, when teams use it for players outside of their current team?

The NBA System is absolutely broken. It needs to be fixed and fixed right away. Look at the NFL as a model, they have small market teams that contend every year. When you hamstring teams with many restrictions and fail to allow an even playing field, you have 4-5 teams who can realistically contend for a title. Baseball gets away with it, so I guess it is fine for the league to do the same.

I am just a very frustrated NBA Fan, voicing my opinions and how I believe the system in place is very flawed. Is it due to the Sixers making bad business decisions and being hamstrung in free agency, yes to a certain degree, but not for the rest of the teams. The NY Knicks in essence didn't try to put a good team together for two seasons, so they could find a easy way out and land other team's best players. Now that plan has failed and failed miserablly. Thus, when you fail to compete, why are you not just forfeiting your games, oh that thing about selling tickets, where you pay for a seat with a team hoping to lose and not compete.

Enough about the system, here are my final thoughts regarding the Sixers moving forward:

-Way too early to be concerned about Evan Turner. He is a player who hates losing and will do the necessary work to get better and prove he can play against the big dogs.

-The Sixers are headed into a tough offseason after this year. Many rookie contracts expire and they need to be very careful who they extend for the future.

-The team has too many young players and need some veterans to teach them how to be winners in this league. A veteran, experience Coach is a good start, but find some veteran players to mentor these young talents.

-The entire culture needs to be changed, losing and not playing hard is not accepted. Any player who doesn't give full effort belongs on the bench or off the team. No player is bigger than the team. Everyone needs to be accountable on and off the court.

-No more building through the draft, the trade market should be used to incorporate veterans who fit Doug Collins system. You cannot have three or four players who haven't developed seeking big long-term contracts, that make building a team impossible if they do not work out.

-Next season is all about changing the culture of their losing ways and for player evaluation. Use the season to figure out which players fit the best for the future of the franchise.

Let's forget about the high-priced free agents out there on their recruiting tours. What is done is done! Definitely will be alot of turnover around the league, especially in the Eastern Conference. Looking at our Division, Boston is getting up there in age, Toronto is losing their best player in Bosh and most likely the Knicks & the Nets will bring in a few new players, not named Lebron or Wade anytime soon. Boston is still the elite team in the division, but the rest of the teams in the division should be evenly matched. Good or Bad for future success, in my opinion the Sixer's have a realistic shot to make there way back into the postseason:

-A real, experienced veteran Head Coach who preaches defense.

-A franchise type player was drafted in Evan Turner. Time will tell if he will either become just a good player or a all-star in this league.

-Team Depth is better than it has been in many seasons. Who knows how the starting lineup will shake out, especially at PF & C positions, but our bench should be very strong, as well as several players who can fill in as starters when injuries occur.

-Rebounding, Shot Blocking & Long distance shooting is a concern, but if the team plays together, they can more than hold their own.

-Look for several players to rebound from poor seasons and some young players to take that next step in their development.

-Being from the NY Area, I would love to see both the Knicks & Nets at the bottom of the division with all this cap money that they obtained.

First, I want to thank all the writers on this board that made this year's draft process very enjoyable. Excellent all-around draft coverage, from weeks ago breaking down the prospects, to the actual draft and post draft insights. All your time and effort is appreciated.

Now to my opinions regarding this year's draft and looking ahead. When we first found out that we landed the #2 pick in the draft, my first inclination was taking a frontcourt player such as Favors or Cousins. With so much uncertianty up front and not believing Evan Turner would ever be a top 5 player in this league, I was hoping the team went big. Throw in the suprising trade of Dalembert, it made perfect sense to go in that direction.

As the pre-draft process moved forward, so did my interest in Evan Turner. What I failed to realize early on in the process, was the impact Evan Turner would bring outside the box score. The Sixer team regresses badly last season with the same cast of players, excluding Andre Miller. Andre Miller was a big loss for the team, more than many would imagine. His leadership on and off the court was sorely missed. His play made everyone around him better. You can even debate he was the team's best player. You never saw the team quit fighting, when he was around, like we saw last season. Evan Turner has the same qualities, great leader who makes everyone around him better. Turner has far more talent, but lacks the experience Andre Miller possessed. Will Turner become a top 5 player in this league? Not sure, but I do know he will make this team better and more successful. Favors or Cousins couldn't provide what Evan Turner brings to the table: leadership, verstility and #1 scoring ability. To prove how much the Sixer's brass liked Evan Turner, I heard they rejected a very interesting trade proposal from Minnesota on draft night: Turner & Brand for Wesley Johnson, Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes & the #16 selection. The team made the right decision to pass on the deal and will reep the benefits of Evan Turner on their roster next season and many more!

The rest of the draft was extremely dissapointing for all of us, hoping to secure another draft pick for a front court player. What it suggests the Sixer franchise isn't doing well financially what so ever and they will not get into that luxury tax threshold. With the arrival of Evan Turner, ticket sales should improve dramatically, but do not expect the team to take on any additional payroll, until the revenues start flowing in again. We may even see salary dump moves in the coming weeks. For the most part, the roster as is, will be pretty much the same, going into next season.

What needs does the roster still have? They losted a ton of rebounding and shot blocking with the Dalembert trade, they still need a few players who can stretch the defense. More veteran presence wouldn't hurt either, with many young players on our roster.

I see the team one core big man away from being a future contender. We know there are three solid core players to build around in Andre, Holliday and now Evan Turner. I believe one core player will emerge out of the group of Thad, Speights or Hawes, which will leave the team with one to be found, along with finding the right role players that fit Doug Collins system. This season is all about evaluating the roster and determining who is a keeper moving forward. Everyone gets a clean slate and must prove their worth with our new coaching staff. With so many young players, there will be some growing pains, but the arrow is pointing in the right direction. Hopefully, within three seasons, we can have a true title contending team. Development, smart basketball decisions, money and some luck along the way, will get this team back.