STAR OF THE WEEK: 11/27 – 12/03

Jahlil Okafor   

Every player in the NBA has talent, yet many struggle aligning that talent with production. Jahlil Okafor does not have that struggle. In a league where talent AND production reign supreme Okafor has complete supremacy over the 76ers’ roster.

Through monitored minutes, a fluctuating role and sever misplacement/misuse on the defensive end Okafor has managed to remain productive. As the only player on the Sixers current roster to not have the word “if” accompany his name in a sentence, the big man has been consistent at displaying his talent of getting buckets.

This week’s star played in all four of the 76ers’ contests, and scored 14 or more points in each. The week was not without its difficulties. The former Duke Blue Devil had his best statistical performance (16 points 13 rebounds) in a blowout loss to the Orlando Magic (105 – 88). These types of outputs in double-digit losses are not known to inspire teams or teammates.

The organization continues to experiment with different lineups and seem committed to developing Joel Embiid. In the “process” Okafor continues to display a talent that should warrant the same attention. 
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STAT OF THE WEEK:

The Back End

Opposing backcourts had a very successful week against Sergio Rodriquez and Co. At first glance shooting 45 percent does not scream total annihilation, but when you consider scoring outbursts of 39 points (Kyrie Irving) and 37 points (Isaiah Thomas) things get a little louder.

When 6 for 6 from beyond the arc from Toronto Raptors’ guard Kyle Lowry and 3 for 4 from Orlando Magic journey man DJ Augustin join the fray, a whole new decibel level is reached.

We all know the Sixers backcourt is a work in progress, um minus the progress. Therefore, expectations in this case most certainly lead to disappointment. Nevertheless, it is not too farfetched to believe better defensive effort is attainable.
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THIS WEEK IN 1982 – 83 (THE CHAMPIONSHIP YEAR):

Hello Mr. Wilkins

The 76ers began the week in Atlanta to take on the Hawks and rookie sensation Dominique Wilkins. After entering the fourth quarter tied at 67, Philadelphia was helpless against Wilkins. The rook would score 14 points in the quarter and 26 in all as Atlanta defeated the Sixers 111 – 97.

Next Philly headed to Phoenix to play the Suns. The Sixers, behind a 38 point second quarter, managed to gut out an eight point win 116 – 108. Andrew Toney would lead the way in this one, with 15 made free throws. The guard finished up with 34 points, but on 28 shots.

With a match-up against the mighty Los Angeles Lakers staring the 76ers in the face, Philly maintained their focus versus the lowly Bill Walton led San Diego Clippers. A much more efficient Toney in this game. The scorer dropped 31 points as the Sixers skated to 127 – 110 victory.
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TWEET OF THE WEEK: 

My #Sixers down 30 to the muh fuggin Magic pic.twitter.com/clQsmbpATa

— SKRRT!! COBAIN® (@waheedstheWorst) December 3, 2016