Sixers: “Tank Season” Is Back

The Sixers have seemed to turn the corner in many aspects of the rebuild, and most of the credit goes to Joel Embiid. With his injury, Philadelphia could be on a goal towards another tank.

Tanking is often seemed of as an ugly word in sports. But when you see the outcome of it, primarily with the Sixers, it’s easy to see why it happens often. The Sixers past few rebuild years will go down as one of the worst stretches for a franchise in professional sports. This year, however, things changed…for a bit anyway.

Rookie Joel Embiid has led the team to 13 wins when he plays, already more than the win total the Sixers had all last season. He’s clearly been a bright spot, and the excitement surrounding the organization is real considering the team is still absent of 2016 top pick Ben Simmons.

But even without Embiid, you can see signs of progress. The Sixers have totaled 19 wins through 53 games, and the team has an overall energized look. Embiid suffered a knee contusion, one he played through against Houston and hasn’t played since.

Philadelphia was able to to grind out some victories, but a five-game losing streak was what headlined his absence (the streak was snapped against Orlando on Thursday). And last night, a video of Embiid dancing on stage at a Meek Mill concert sparked unnecessary controversy across the fanbase.

Embiid is recovery from a knee contusion. A far less serious injury than what Andrew Bynum was recovering from when he took that infamous trip to the bowling alley. But of course, it brought up frivolous statements like, “if he’s healthy to dance, he’s healthy to play”, as if playfully dancing has the same strain on the body as playing professional basketball.

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But what it does show is that the Sixers are allowing Embiid to rest and take as much time necessary to come back from a nuisance of an injury. That also shows the team’s willingness to drop a few games to position themselves better come June.

It’s quite Hinkie-esque, but a smart move. If the season ended today, Philadelphia would end up with the fourth best record. Still decent odds to jumping to the top spot, but the odds could always be better. The class is stacked with guards who can make an impact, but there’s one in particular that fits with this team better than the rest.

That prospect is Markelle Fultz. Fultz has the highest star potential of anyone in the draft. He’s a point guard who can play off the ball in a catch-and-shoot role. He’s lengthy and quick, and a very smart attacker. His scoring potential next to Simmons would be remarkable.

Next: Embiid's Injury History Still Playing A Factor

So remarkable, the Sixers should do anything it takes to be in a position to draft him. Even if that means taking a few losses while Embiid gets to an outright 100%. The goal of the Process remains in tact, and the organization isn’t losing sight of long term potential.