The Sixers came out during Wednesday’s Home Opener and dominated the Celtics, 107-93. Despite a 14 point victory, however, their three-point shooting woes seemed like they are going to continue from last season.
In fact, the first quarter was horrific from outside the paint. The team went 1-12 outside the paint, while going 0/7 from three. For the entire game, the team shot 7-29 from distance.
I know it is only game one, and hopes are high for the team who has guys like Tobias Harris, Al Horford, Embiid, Josh Richardson and (maybe even Ben Simmons) who can shoot from beyond. However, (except for maybe Furkan Korkmaz, who played a heavy load with 19 minutes) with JJ Redick in New Orleans now, who could the Sixers potentially sign to help fill that void if needed?
Carmelo Anthony
‘Melo came out on national TV and expressed his desire to take a lesser role in order to get back into the NBA. He is a future hall of famer, who has shot just under 35% from three in his career. If he were willing to take on a bench role, like he says, as well as take a friendly contract, I do not see why the Sixers would not bring him in. Veteran presence, former scoring champion (2013), 10x all-star. I mean- why not?
Jamal Crawford
I know exactly what you are thinking:
Jamal Crawford?
Yes, Jamal Crawford.
He is about to turn 40, but reflecting on his recent stats, he still has it. On the final day of the 2018-19 season, Crawford exploded for 51 points on 30 FG attempts off the Suns’ bench. He also played in all 82 games in the 2017-2018 season. Hey, the best ability is availability.
35% from three, playoff experience, veteran presence, again- why not want a guy like this on your bench?
Joe Johnson
You mean to tell me after wanting a guy who can create his own shot, you don’t even want to consider bringing in THE Iso-Joe?
For real though, he has been keeping his endurance and conditioning up while participating in the Big 3 league, where he led the league in points and assists. This was good enough to present him the honors of being named Big 3 league MVP. He also was second in the league in 3 pointers made. The 7x all-star has already worked out for the Sixers, and just got cut from the Pistons as the season began.
Some others:
Is the Potential Still There?
Former first-round picks such as Marquese Chriss and Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot (Yes- TLC!) are looking for NBA jobs. Both are young and energetic presences, who I highly doubt would be a good fit. However, both are still out there if the Sixers wanted to give either a shot (or a second one for TLC).
The Round-Up
The Philadelphia 76ers have only played one game. That’s it, just one this season.
But, the NBA is a shooter’s league. We have starters who can shoot the three-ball, but the bench had its struggles in game one, which also can date back to last season.
I am not overreacting about the bench by any means, but teams are always looking for a veteran. A former NBA star who is looking to revamp their career as a role player. I think bringing in a guy like Joe Johnson, who can shoot, would also serve as role model for the younger guys on the roster.
Onto the Next
The Sixers take on the Pistons tonight at 7 p.m. in Detroit. They’ll look to carry over the strong momentum from game one, and exploit the Blake Griffin-less Pistons again, like they did in their third preseason game back on Oct. 15th.
Fully expect Ben Simmons to take over again. The Sixers could have both Embiid and Mike Scott on limited minutes, as both are questionable with ankle sprains.
Make sure to keep an eye on Matisse Thybulle also. The rookie was put on the Celtics best perimeter shooter, Kemba Walker, and held him to only 12 points. I fully expect him to guard Derek Rose while he’s on the court.
And as always- #LetsgoSixers
Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
