The Sixers had their full starting lineup intact for just the 25th time this season and it resulted in a 127-83 win over the Hawks at home. Let’s look at some takeaways from the contest:
- Doc’s decision to leave Ben Simmons in pays dividends: Ben Simmons picked up his fourth foul early in the third quarter and Doc Rivers opted to allow him to stay in the game. It wasn’t the only decision that paid off but nonetheless, still a good one. The Sixers expanded that lead to 30 shortly after and it was pretty safe to start writing this article mid-way through the third quarter.
- George Hill‘s role could expand further than we originally thought: Doc’s decision to make George Hill the first player off the bench was sound. If all goes well, Hill could be a major part of the bench unit in the playoffs, siphoning minutes from Shake Milton. Milton’s development has been great and he’ll definitely be in the playoff rotation. I just wonder if it’ll be in the 10-12 minutes per game variety with Hill seeing larger chucks of action off the bench.
- Dwight Howard‘s career three-point year continues. The Sixers have won 10-straight when Dwight Howard has taken a three. That stat means absolutely nothing but these are the kinds of stats we at FortyEightMinutes can dig up when a team goes up by 30 in the third quarter.
On a serious note, Dwight has been great for the Sixers this year and while these types of shots won’t be in the game plan during the postseason, why not see if maybe Philadelphia should consider it, especially in games like this.
4. The market for John Collins this summer is going to be fun to watch: Admittedly, I haven’t seen much of John Collins this year. Any media member that tells you they are watching as much basketball as they usually do are likely either lying or newly single. The condensed schedule has taken away many off nights for media members in the same way that it did for players; no complaints but some teams get the short end of the stick from a viewership standpoint.
I caught Collins against the Wizards in late January and he looked solid (alongside Trae Young and a nearly healthy Hawks’ roster) but tonight against the Sixers, potential suitors got a look at what he could do in a much-expanded role (as Atlanta was down several starters again). The big man will always need to be flanked by a top guard to achieve the most success—much like a top wide receiver will still need a good quarterback to thrive. However, Collins is showcasing his skills as a playmaker and I bet opposing GMs are noticing.
5. The Sixers have clinched the postseason spot. Philadelphia is the third team in the league this season (Utah, then Brooklyn) to clinch a playoff berth.
