PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia 76ers had a busy offseason. They brought in PJ Tucker, De’Anthony Melton, Danuel House Jr. and Montrezl Harrell to increase the team’s toughness and improve the supporting cast.
It has only been two preseason games, but the additions the Sixers have made continue to make an impact on the floor. Melton has been solid on the defensive end. House Jr. is knocking down 3, and Tucker is making his presence felt. Even Harrell has hopped off the bench and given good production.
Before their preseason win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff was complimentary of the moves Philadelphia made in the offseason.
“They did an excellent job in the offseason of building a basketball team,” said Bickerstaff of the Sixers. “I think, spending a ton of time with Daryl (Morey) in Houston, having a real familiarity with him and what his expectations are and the plans he puts in place.”
Bickerstaff spent time with the Houston Rockets, so he understands what Morey wants to do and he knows how he likes to run things. The moves Morey made were focused on helping James Harden and Joel Embiid get the job done on the floor just as Morey tried to do with Harden in Houston.
“Obviously, I have a ton of respect for Doc (Rivers) and his ability to coach in the league, but when you look at what they’ve built, they’ve brought in pieces that can complement and make their stars better,” Bickerstaff added. “I think any time you do that, it’s a successful summer, for sure.”
Time will tell if the moves the Sixers made will actually help them get over the hump in the Eastern Conference, but on paper the moves appear perfect fits for this team to fix issues.
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