5 End of Preseason Questions

Zo asks five Qs about the preseason Sixers (who are all currently still alive as far as we know).

Almost time to get this thing going for real, and of course we’re already on knee (and lung) watch.

1. Who has impressed the most so far?

All players included, I think Guerschon Yabusele is going to be really really good for this team. He looks engaged, in shape and like a guy who has no plans on leaving the league again, which bodes extremely well for the Sixers. We’ll see how long he can keep it going but I’m really excited for his potential.

2. Who has been the most intriguing rookie?

Far and away Jared McCain. Up-and-down Summer League, but up until his injury I was really happy with what he was showing. More than anything, I’ve been really impressed thus far with how strong he’s been at the point of contact and eventually around the basket. I knew the jumper would eventually translate, but if he can continue to play strong and get to his spots on both ends of the court he should definitely be pushing Eric Gordon for that second-line PT. 

3. What do you make of Joel Embiid and seemingly the team's stance on no back-to-backs?

Back-to-backs are dumb and an injury waiting to happen for many teams and players, not just Joel — but I’m glad that there is a plan. I think in recent years, many of us just asked for a plan. You look at Kawhi Leonard and his issues right now, and it’s hard to argue against managing both short- and long-term rest for your best player(s).

4. What veteran guard do you favor the most at the moment? (Emphasis on “at the moment”)

I think Reggie Jackson can be extremely serviceable, especially during the grind of the West Coast and Texas trips; he’s a guy who you don’t regret playing 30 minutes. You don’t want to — still fucking sucks you have to — but push comes to shove, you’re cool with that in December, versus asking Kyle Lowry to play 44 in January? 

5. When did Paul George become a Sixer?

Many will tell you 7/1/2024. Sixers fans, however, will rightfully tell you — the night he made a basketball move and that knee bent backward is when he truly became one of us.