Section 215
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Five Early Takeaways from the Sixers’ Season Thus Far

By James Petrino

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Spencer Hawes is a Focal Point of the Offense

 

Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Sixers’ center Spencer Hawes has always been a talented player, but has never been able to put it all together on the offensive end. Last season, Hawes made strides on the offensive end, but unfortunately suffered an Achilles injury that limited him on offense as the year went on. This season, Hawes has become a focal point of Brett Brown’s offensive scheme using the big man in a variety of ways.

During the preseason, head coach Brett Brown praised Hawes as a leader and as an offensive talent. So far, Hawes showed why he earned Brown’s praise as he has been able to expand his offensive game. The seven footer has improved his outside jump shot and been able to get easy buckets in the paint.

Take last night for example, with the clock winding down and the Sixers leading by one over the Bulls, MCW passed the ball to Hawes, who then faked a three-point shot to force the defender to fly by for a block attempt, and stepped in to hit a 19 foot jumper from the top of the key to give the 76ers a three point lead. Hawes also hit a clutch three-point shot against the Heat in the season opener.

On the season, Spencer Hawes is averaging 19.3 PPG and 11.3 RPG, while shooting a team high 65% from the field. Hawes is also shooting 50% from behind the arc. Hawes has worked hard to become a stretch five for the Sixers this season and it is paying off for the team. Rather than playing solely in the paint, Hawes is playing all over the court and drawing opposing centers out of the paint since they have to respect his ability to score from the perimeter. This has opened up the paint for guards MCW, Tony Wroten, and Evan Turner who are able to penetrate the defense to score in the paint or drive and kick it to Hawes for open shots.

Brown loves Hawes’ offensive ability and potential to be a difference maker every game. Moving forward, look for Hawes to continue to be an integral part of the offense for the 76ers.