After beating the Sacramento Kings 119-111, the Sixers are now 14-0 this season when their whole starting five plays. However, Philly’s depth and Doc Rivers’ lineup management is what stood out in the win.
There were some issues throughout the game preventing the Sixers from playing all-around strong basketball. In the first half, they struggled defensively. In the third quarter, they could not get open shots and had too many turnovers. The Kings led 97-93 with 8:44 left in the fourth quarter. That is when Rivers’ closing lineup finished the game with authority.
The lineup of Simmons, Milton, Thybulle, Harris, and Embiid played how a one seed in the East should play. Lock-down defense creating offense, good ball movement and the group gelling together excellently. Philly’s leading scorer at the time, Curry with 22 points, probably would not have even played in the fourth quarter if Milton did not have to come out late!
Out of the nine Sixers who played, six scored double digits and three scored at least 22 points. Many fans have wondered if Philly needs to add another star or add more depth. With how the team is looking at 18-7, the Sixers could be fine just how they are, as long as they keep up this level of play.
