Miami Heat Scouting the Enemy: Philadelphia 76ers

Season Outlook

The Philadelphia 76ers have arguably the best starting five in the entire league and their season aim is quite simple; title or bust.

There is no longer the notion to Trust the Process, as the process is as done as it possibly can be. These players aren’t any longer the young up and coming players that should eventually become title contenders, their time is now.

Although the players aren’t necessarily at the peak of their primes, they are still All-NBA and All-Star caliber players.

Embiid is a top-10 player in the league and has already proven to be arguably the best center in the game. In addition, he doesn’t merely show up on the offensive end, he makes sure he shows up on the defensive end as well.

There is a legitimate case that Embiid could be the league’s Most Valuable Player.  There is no doubt the 76ers will be a top-3 team in the Eastern Conference and there is also no doubt that he will be putting up monster numbers.

Then, we get to both Richardson and Horford. Last season, per NBA.com, the 76ers ranked 14th in defensive rating. Now, with these additions, their length, and their ability to switch on defense, the 76ers have the potential to be one of the best defensive teams in the league.

Finally, we get to the X-Factor. I believe the 76ers will go as far as Simmons’ improvement goes. For the second straight year, Simmons under-performed during the playoffs, mainly due to his lack of a jump-shot.