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Even with Patrick McCaw’s impressive play so far in Vegas, the Warriors have yet to find themselves on the winning side of the equation. Could we see that change tonight as they take on Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers at 5:30 pm PT?
Ben Simmons has been the most polarizing player of these Vegas games. His build, athleticism, and court vision are completely unworldly. The dude literally can see things on the court that I didn’t now existed. It’s as if he’s catching all the pokemon in a realm only he can access.
However, he is terrified to shoot the ball. He shoots free throws and jump shots left handed, but finishes exclusively with his right hand on drives. Also, he writes right handed. I’m confused, truly. I don’t really understand his game. I’ve heard everything from, “well, he’s just a 6’10” Rajon Rondo,” to, “he could be a LeBron James-esque talent...if he works on his shot.”
We’ll get a chance to see him up close and personal tonight.
On the Warriors side, will Patrick McCaw have yet another impressive showing? What more can he prove? What other wrinkles are there in his game? Which other Warriors will step up? Will any of these dudes (outside of McCaw) even make the team?
Philly and the Dubs are at polar opposites of the NBA baton. However, Philly could potentially have THREE rookie of the year condidates ext year, as Joel Embiid, Dario Saric, and Ben Simmons will all get heavy minutes on a rebuilding squad. Obviously, Embiid and Saric are not here (although, Saric was supposed to come...but now...I don’t understand his situation, so let’s just assume he’s not coming, ever).
The basketball here has been grating and ferociously mediocre so far. McCaw has looked great, sure, but the level of competition and competency is not near where it is in a regular NBA game. Players with questionable talent are over-pushing, trying to make a team. The greatest players, like Simmons, are just probing the court, trying to see how their game fits into the league. No one has really had an “OH SSSSSHHHHHHH######T” moment, or game, yet.
Maybe we’ll see something like that tonight.