Miami Heat Scouting the Enemy: Philadelphia 76ers

Big Al will be big for 76ers

Not only did the 76ers erase that problem, but they added him to the team to provide that stellar defense on their behalfs. But Horford’s impact doesn’t stop here.

We all know what Embiid’s health looks like. In his career, he has played a total of 158 games out of 246. This is a similar story during the playoffs and although he does suit up for the games, he is often limited due to whatever the problem is during that game.

This is where Horford steps in. He is the team’s safety net whenever Embiid’s health comes into question, which is very likely when it comes to him. Horford is very much capable of filling that spot in emergencies, especially on the defensive end.

They also re-signed Harris to a huge deal, that in my opinion, is way too much for him. Regardless of his contract, Harris is one quality player. This is the case although he has never been close to being an All-NBA player nor even being an All-Star.

But, for the entirety of his career, Harris has improved incrementally in every major statistic each year he has been in the league. His points have gradually gone up, like his rebounds, his assists, and most importantly his 3-point percentage.

In the last two seasons, he has become an actual threat from the outside and this is vital if the 76ers want to succeed. Without Butler, he will have to become their closer late in games.

Finally, we get to the downsides of their off-season. It is such downside, that if it didn’t happen, Stephen A Smith has noted on several occasions that he would have picked them to win the finals.

The loss of JJ Redick is a major loss and it will hurt them, but especially in the playoffs. Per Basketball-Reference, the Philadelphia 76ers ranked 19th in both 3-point attempts and makes. That isn’t going to get any better with Redick leaving.

Now, with the off-season reviewed, we get to the season outlook and what this means for the Miami Heat.