Last year during a strike shortened 2011-12 NBA season, the Philadelphia 76ers advanced to the 2nd round of the playoffs for the 1st time since 2003. Gone are veterans Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand. 6th man Lou Williams has moved on as well. Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner the young talented duo remains. Ditto for Thaddeus Young. Via trade and free agency, Philadelphia has added Andrew Bynum, Jason Richardson, Dorrell Wright and Nick Young. The last 3 players mentioned should be available to stretch the defense with their ability to knock down the 3. That helps Bynum in the post and when healthy Andrew can demand a double team, get to the free line or even kick the ball out to open shooters. Doug Collins the 76ers head coach seems to have plenty of talent to work with. Lavoy Allen the young big man returns along with veteran Spencer Hawes to provide front court depth. Don't forget about Kwame Brown who was added for his interior defense and rebounding. Personally I like the kid from Villanova, who'll play backup point guard Maalik Wayns. Wayns passes the ball that leads to a Lavoy Allen basket I refer to as the Temple/Nova Big 5 connection. They key to the season is keeping Bynum healthy. That allows players to slash to the basket and shoot 3s. I feel like Philadelphia winning 50 games and appearing in the Eastern Conference Finals, would make 2012-13 a successful season. Wednesday night they'll open the season vs. Andre Iguodala and the Denver Nuggets at the Wells Fargo Center. Let the 82 game journey begin.
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