Philadelphia 76ers 2011-2012 NBA Season Preview

On Monday evening, the Philadelphia 76ers will open up their 2011-2012 campaign against the Brandon Roy-deprived Portland Trailblazers at the Rose Garden Arena.  Tipoff is scheduled for approximately 10:00 pm ET.

The 76ers made significant strides last season and salvaged their disastrous 2009-2010 season (27-55) behind the leadership of coach Doug Collins.  The 76ers finished the season with an extremely promising performance against the Miami Heat that stretched for five games.  Despite the brevity of the series, the 76ers presented themselves as forces to be reckoned with.  They gave the Heat much more to handle than anyone expected.  

The 76ers are seeking to expand their base of young, talented players—a base that includes Jrue Holiday, Lou Williams, Jodie Meeks, Thaddeus Young and Evan Turner.  

Jrue Holiday is proving to be one of the league's rising stars and is equally dangerous on and off the ball.  Lou Williams is an exceptionally talented ball-handler.  Although he's not the most consistent shooter, Williams shines in clutch situations—most notably in game four against the Miami Heat.  Jodie Meeks won't be putting up 30 points each night, but he provides the 76ers with a legitimate three-point threat.

Thaddeus Young is known for his versatility around the basket.  To supplement his finesse and power around the basket, Young also provides the 76ers with an outside presence.  

Evan Turner was the second-overall pick in 2010.  Despite not fulfilling lofty expectations, the Ohio State star definitely started to come around as the season progressed.  He has demonstrated a keen talent to drive to the basket and hit the midrange shot.

With all of this said, the 76ers will be anchored by veterans Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand.  Igoudala is often seen in a negative light; many fans believe that he simply not capable of leading a team deep into the playoffs.  Whether you like Igoudala or not, his defense, rebounding and finesse make him crucial to this team's success.  

Elton Brand had his best season as a Sixer in 2010-2011.  His averages of 15 points and nine rebounds and undoubtedly proved that he had not lost the tools that had made him one of the league's best forwards during his time as a Los Angeles Clipper.

One of the main issues the Sixers have had for a long time is their lack of a big man.  Seeking to rectify this problem, the 76ers selected Nikola Vucevic—a seven-footer out of USC.  In combination with Spencer Hawes, Vucevic should bolster the 76ers frontcourt this season.

Another crucial element the 76ers are lacking is a superstar.  If you look at the final four teams from last season, each of them had a superstar.   Nowitzki, Durant, Lebron/Wade and Derrick Rose all led their teams deep into playoffs.  Without these guys, these teams probably would not have had such outstanding seasons.

The 76ers are definitely a team that can make the playoffs.  There is no question about that.  They will be one of the top eight teams in the Eastern Conference.  But can they make it to that next step without a big name?  Will they be able to overcome teams such as Miami and Chicago—teams that are clearly more talented and experienced than the young 76ers? 

While it is unlikely that the 76ers will be a championship contender, they will surely make up for a lack of comparable talent with their passion, grit and a never-say-die attitude.

Season Predictions

Distinguishing Factor: The 76ers have arguably one of the best transition games in all of basketball.  Look for this to be their "X-factor" for the 2011-2012 season.

Record: 39-27

Standing: Third in Atlantic Division, sixth in the Eastern Conference.

Playoffs: Eliminated in the second round.