Making a "Brand" Name for Himself: Elton Brand's Effect on the 76ers

When free agency officially began, the Sixers wasted no time in bolstering their front line.  And on July 10th, 2008, they made the biggest splash in free agency when they signed Elton Brand. 

What Brand brings to this team in the low post presence that they have yet to have in the Maurice Cheeks era.  He brings a defensive presence that will allow Sammy Dalembert to freely guard the rim without always coming to double team.  He brings athleticism to the four spot that the Sixers have been searching for.  And he also brings a true power forward to this team.  A healthy, super-star power forward.  Something that this team hasn't had since, sorry Chris Webber, Charles Barkley.

Hopefully with Elton Brand, he also brings that leadership and a winning attitude that has been clearly missed in the past.  With Brand last season, I would have thought they'd beat the Pistons.  They had no low-post game, and the Pistons knew that and exploited that.  He was the missing link and everyone in the Sixers organization knew this.  With only eight games played last season, how will everything work out for him and the Sixers?

Coming off an Achilles injury, Brand will be tested early and often.  The Sixers aren't the only team with a major off-season move.  Coming into town on Wednesday for the season opener is the Toronto Raptors.  A team that wanted to go ahead and bolster their front line as well and bring in Jermaine O'Neal.  Will Elton be Brand of old, or will it take time for him adjusting to the Sixers style of play?

Only time will tell for both Brand and the Sixers.  Without Brand the Sixers very well could be a team on the outside looking in when its time for the playoffs in April.  But now the addition of Brand puts them into the top four in the East.  Look for Brand to carry this team through the playoffs, and maybe down Broad Street for a parade in June! 

All I know is that this will be fun and exciting season, and I'm hoping that it's a deep run for the Sixers.