Sixers Lore: Game 2, We Need to See Fultz

One of the problems the Sixers encountered in Game 1 of the Celtics series revolves around Ben Simmons. He played 42 minutes. That is a lot of minutes for a guy whose job is to run the floor. Too many.

So while the Sixers stuck with Simmons, the Celtics rotated Rozier and Larkin. And at the end of the game, Rozier was still ready to contribute. Simmons looked gassed. Nicht gut!

Like it or not, Simmons needs more rest during the game.  And there is a player on the bench who can at least play with Larkin — that is Markelle Fultz. Here are 5 things Fultz might add to the Sixer line up as a Simmons sub in game 2.

Brown saw something he didn’t like when Fultz was on the floor in the first Heat games. It might have been that Markelle was having trouble adjusting to the physicality.  Time for another look?

I think so.

So what about TJ? McConnell deserves some time when a spark is needed. He did not give that spark in game 1 against the Celtics. Not his fault, but the Sixers need to keep looking for what clicks. In game 2, I would plug in Markelle to spell Simmons early to see how what he does. If he screws up, there is time to fix it. If not, he can fit back into the rotation.

Several other potential adjustments

• Keep JJ Redick away from Tatum
• Bring in Justin Anderson for more solid defense instead of Marco
• Put Ben Simmons on Rozier

I would add one more — put Dario or  whoever is playing power forward on Baines when he sets up for a corner 3. That would allow Joel to stay inside.