How good the 76ers have been lately, I believe the fans can see it. The 76ers' three cores, Embiid, Harden and Maxi, finally played the tactical system and chemistry they should have.
One of the questions that comes to mind is where did the 76ers change come from?
The overall form of the 76ers, including the Pacers, Bucks, Heat, and Grizzlies, has been out of shape with a 42-22 record this season, and has moved to third place in the East.
I think the change in Harden and Maxi is crucial, Embiid is a little bit of power, which is a good thing for the 76ers, Embiid doesn't have to be so tired, Harden and Maxi play more proactively.
Let's look at Maxi first.
Maxi returned to the first four games, averaging 27.3 points, 3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game, with an assist-to-error ratio of 11:1, and it can be said that Maxi is almost zero turnovers. He shot 64 percent from two-point range, 53 percent from three-point range (averaging 5.7 shots per game) and 15 of 15 free throws.
With marksman Maxi's form back, the 76ers have indeed shown strong competitiveness. Maxie is the Western Emperor of Philadelphia, not the Simmons he once was.
You know, Maxi's annual salary is only $5 million, and throughout the season, Maxi can also average 20.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.
By the time Maxi's contract expires, it's nearly impossible for 76ers management to keep Maxi for an annual salary of $5 million. So I want to say that this season has really been a great opportunity for Harden and Embiid.
Let's look at Harden again.
Harden has always been the one who sacrificed for the team. Whether it was taking the initiative to cut his salary in order to get Tucker at the beginning of the season, or saying that he changed his playing style to actively cater to Embiid, Harden made huge changes and concessions.
This season, there have only been two individual performances with 20+ assists in the league, one against Harden and the other with Harden.
When the 76ers beat the Pacers, Harden cut 14 points, 9 rebounds and 20 assists, fans moved Harden, can't you learn the alphabet brother of the Eastern Conference boss Bucks? Do one more rebound die?
Harden is averaging 21.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 10.8 assists and 1.2 steals this season, shooting 44.9 percent from the field and 40.1 percent from three-point range, and Harden ranks first in the league in 10.8 assists per game.
Isn't that a change for the 76ers?
The 76ers, reporters and prominent commentators agree that this season's 76ers are the best 76ers in recent seasons.
Perhaps this season is Harden, Embiid, Maxi and the 76ers' best chance.
Do you think the 76ers' current strength can leapfrog the Green Army and Bucks in the East?