Philadelphia 76ers and the Case of the Missing Crunch Time Offense

Recently there has been a lot of talk about the Miami Heat's Big Three—Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and their inability to close out games. That talk has been backed up by the fact that they're 5-13 in games decided by five points or less.

So when the Sixers lost their most recent game 110-105 in overtime to the Oklahoma City Thunder, I couldn't help but wonder what their record was in games decided by five points or less—and wouldn't you know it, that exact same record popped up again, 5-13.

I doubt that really surprises anyone who has followed the 76ers this year, but as the playoffs approach, it is an issue that the Sixers have to try and figure out if they hope to make a run this postseason.

To get a better idea of what the late game scoring issues might be, lets take a quick look back at the game against the Thunder, in which Philadelphia held a five point lead with a little over a minute left in regulation.

It's likely that one more score would have locked up the win, yet the 76ers' final four possessions resulted in a shot clock violation, Lou Williams missing a deep two, a contested air-ball from Andre Iguodala and an offensive charge by Iggy.

While it may be frustrating, it's not shocking when you consider that Philadelphia's strength is running the floor and getting quick baskets. It's counter to their style of play to have to slow things down and run half court sets.

So what, if any, are the solutions to the Sixers' late game struggles? Who can the team look to when they are in need of a crunch-time bucket?

Well, this may be a little out there. It's unconventional, I know, but how about...the open man?

The simple fact is there isn't a single guy on the team who can consistently create his own shot. Yet, time after time, Iguodala gets the ball and the rest of the team clears out to let him try and drive to the hoop.

Sure, he's athletic and can throw down jams with the best of them, but in these situations, the defense is already set up and keyed in on the fact that Andre is looking to take it to the hole.

As much credit as Doug Collins has received for his coaching abilities and turning around of this team, his end of game offense leaves a lot to be desired.

Ideally, I would like to see Lou Williams with the ball and Elton Brand setting a screen for him right around the foul line.

Along with that, I would have Jodie Meeks planted in the corner for the three. This would then give Lou the option to drive if the pick works, drop it off to Elton for the foul line jumper if they switch or kick it out to Jodie if the rest of the defense collapses.

Some people might suggest that you do the same thing but with Andre handling the ball and Lou spotted up in the corner opposite Jodie. I don't have a problem with that play either, as long as it's properly executed and doesn't result in Andre forcing a layup over two guys.

Either way, it should be clear to coach Collins that his current approach to closing out games needs some work. I just hope he can figure it out before the playoffs, otherwise the Sixers are in big trouble.

Then again, maybe they'll be matched up with the Heat—the one team who is just as bad in close games as they are. The unstoppable bricklayers vs. the immovable offensive flow. Can't wait!