By Sean Kennedy (@PhillyFastBreak)
If nothing else this preseason, Coach Brett Brown is getting a good look at how his young team responds in close, late-game situations. Sunday afternoon was the 3rd game of the 6 preseason contests thus far decided by just one possession. Unfortunately for the Sixers, Sunday was the first of those three where the team did not come out on top. Down 1 in the final minute, the Sixers committed two turnovers with a chance to go ahead. The final one looked like Nerlens Noel had his arm held down by Brook Lopez, and Hollis Thompson’s entry pass sailed over his head. No foul was called though, and the Nets iced the game at the free throw line.
Being preseason, let’s not get too caught up in the final outcome. Most encouragingly, the tandem of Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafor showed good chemistry during their time on the court together. Noel continues continued to shine and looks set for a monster season. It was the first time receiving a full complement of court time this preseason, and across 35 minutes. Noel responded with 15 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 6 steals, and 2 blocks. He and Okafor connected with each other on quite a few plays, none more impressively than this beauty in the open court:
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) October 19, 2015
In his return to action after sitting out with a sore knee, Okafor dropped 14 points in 20 minutes, shooting 5-13 from the field and committing 5 turnovers. That’s essentially what fans can expect from the rookie in the early going, plenty of usage with some efficiency struggles as the big man adapts to not being the biggest, strongest guy on the court every night.
Scottie Wilbekin continued his hot shooting stretch, going 3-7 from three against Brooklyn to make him 7-13 over the last 2 games. He also failed to record an assist in 21 minutes of action, not exactly what you’re looking for from a potential point guard. Might Wilbekin make the roster as a back-up shooting guard? One more great shooting performance in the preseason finale will force the Sixers to make a tough decision.
Richaun Holmes continued to struggle adjusting to defense at the NBA level. For the next straight game, Holmes fouled out while playing under 20 minutes. Why is it important for Holmes to stay on the court? Because he can do stuff like this:
Welcome to Richaun Holmes' poster. https://t.co/MLvbJa3rXt
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) October 18, 2015
The Sixers conclude the preseason Friday night against the Celtics in Manchester, New Hampshire.
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