The Philadelphia 76ers are 20-13 after winning eight of their last nine games. After a dreadful start to the season, they have begun to figure out how they want to play and coach Doc Rivers has the team moving in the right direction.
The Sixers are fifth in the East, four games behind first-place Boston. They have thrust themselves back into the East title conversation with the Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, Brooklyn Nets and upstart Cleveland Cavaliers.
ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins and JJ Redick debated Philadelphia’s place in the East on “First Take.” Both played for Rivers during their career; Redick played two seasons for the Sixers:
Perkins: We’re talking about between the 76ers and the Nets and you’re asking me who I trust the most? I’m going with the 76ers and let me ask you this, me and you both played for Doc Rivers. Do you not trust Doc Rivers when you had one of your best seasons and was having some your best seasons under Doc Rivers?
Redick: Of course! Of course, if we’re being frank though, Doc Rivers has also blown a lot of playoff series leads. He’s the only guy to do it more than once, and he’s done it three times in terms of having a 3-1 lead and that’s not all on him, it’s on the players, too. I was on one of those teams. It was on me, too. I’m not blaming Doc.
The Sixers must overcome a great deal to make a dent in the Eastern Conference title race, but they will have a puncher’s chance when the postseason begins. Joel Embiid and James Harden will ensure that just on their play alone. Philadelphia will then need strong play out of Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey to get over the top.
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Story originally appeared on Sixers Wire