The Fan Hub

Things are going pretty well for a Philadelphia 76ers team that many thought would be rebuilding this year. They are 16-6 and are tied with the Miami Heat for second in the Eastern Conference with 14 double-digit victories and a stingy defense that is the best in the league, allowing only 85.9 points per game. They are devoid of a superstar player, but their deep roster is comprised of hardworking and selfless players that have developed a great chemistry with one another.

Jrue Holiday has given the Sixers great point guard play, Spencer Hawes, when healthy, has been a force in the paint, and Andre Iguodala has stepped up in critical situations. They also have one of the NBA’s deepest rosters with Evan Turner, Lou Williams, and Thaddeus Young all providing quality minutes off the bench.

Yet despite these impressive numbers, there is still reason to doubt whether or not the 76ers are serious title contenders. The have had the easiest schedule in the NBA to date and only four of their wins have come against teams with a winning percentage currently above .500. Some of their quality big wins of late have also come against teams ravaged by injuries. They beat the Chicago Bulls without Luol Deng, the Indiana Pacers without Danny Granger, and the Orlando Magic amidst the distracting turmoil of the Dwight Howard situation.

It is too early to proclaim the 76ers as legitimate title contenders, but a week from now after they have played the Heat, Hawks, Lakers, Clippers and Spurs we will have an idea of whether or not they plan to contend this season.

— John Axelrod