Since when has any point guard been given props for defense? Seriously there isn't any points touted as All-Stars for their work as defenders! Lou still has a bit to learn on that side, but he's doing a great job of playing under control, and making good decisions with the ball.
To dissagree with Ricky, Sam Dalmebert has been a great defender for us these last few games. He still makes mistakes like taking a pass at the top of the key and driving the lane, but he is laying good defense and was even ripped off on a call against Brook Lopez late in the game last night. Just as I've given up on him, he's demonstrated the ability to defend Dwight Howard and Kevin Garnet and Kendrick Perkins without getting into foul trouble.
New Jersey surprized me with their effort and work on the defensive end. They were short-handed but still ran their offense and shot very well from the outside. When they played zone against the Sixers was when Jordan put Kapono in to stretch the floor. Unfortunately Jason is too slow and Trenton Hassel was victimizing him on the other end.
Jordan said during the press conference that he wanted to match-up size wise with NJ, and that's why he didn't go with Brand, but Elton was on his way to a 16 and 10 night, 8 and 5 at the half. Frankly, I could care less if another team goes small. Pound it inside on them every chance you get!
Both Smith and Speights deserved more pt. A real strength to have players like these on the bench. Surprized and encouraged by the play of the 2nd string guards, Willie Green and Royal Ivey, who both played good games and kept the Sixers offense running in the 2nd Quarter. Royal had an excellent defense play as well.
I think Eddie is still trying to figure out who to use in the rotation, and with the talent he has on the roster this is somewhat normal. I think we are short at the guard spot, with Ivey and Green as backups, they did fine last night but NJ was without their better players, against good teams they have been overmatched thus far. Willie also made some good offensive moves last night, so he deserves his props.
None of the Sixers had bad games last night, even though Thad got off to a poor start. Considering how NJ was working so hard on defense, the fact that we ended up shooting 50% from both the floor and beyond the three point line is quite impressive. Defensively the Sixeres were lacking a bit, but NJ took care of the ball and Brook Lopez is a very good player (if a bit of a cheat)
