PHILADELPHIA — The 76ers have opened the season 5-1, but several key storylines remain in focus as the team waits to field its full roster.
Edgecombe’s Development Next to Embiid
Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Keith Pompey questions whether rookie guard VJ Edgecombe can fully expand his offensive arsenal while sharing the court with former MVP Joel Embiid. Edgecombe leads all first-year players at 20.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game on 49.5 percent shooting overall and 42.1 percent from three.
With Embiid on the floor, offensive possessions naturally funnel through the center, potentially limiting the rookie’s touches. How quickly the pair adjusts could shape Edgecombe’s growth over the coming months.
Embiid Easing Back After April Surgery
Embiid underwent knee surgery in April and has appeared in four games. Pompey notes the All-Star’s mobility has not yet returned to its usual level, suggesting it may take up to another month to determine whether Embiid is simply building conditioning or still feeling the effects of the procedure.
Oubre’s Two-Way Spark
Kelly Oubre Jr. has quietly become a central piece of the strong start. The wing poured in 24 points against Brooklyn, including 22 in the opening quarter, and took on the primary defensive assignment against Michael Porter Jr., limiting the forward to two first-half points after Porter scored 32 the previous game.
Through six contests, Oubre averages 19.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 steals while shooting 52.6 percent from the field and 41.6 percent beyond the arc. The 28-year-old is on a one-year contract and will enter unrestricted free agency next summer.
“When you start the game super focused on D, that usually translates to the other end, too,” head coach Nick Nurse said of Oubre’s early burst.
George’s Fit and McCain’s Return
Pompey also highlighted Paul George’s playmaking ability and how the veteran will slot into the Sixers’ defense once he is available. Meanwhile, second-year guard Jared McCain is expected to make his season debut Tuesday after an impactful rookie campaign that was interrupted by injuries.
Philadelphia’s lineup remains incomplete, but the club’s fast start has positioned it well as it waits for all pieces to take the floor together.
Source: Hoops Wire
