The team’s defense was the focus of the 76ers training camp on day 4. The team’s defense must be locked in as the Sixers try to manage Joel Embiid’s minute on the court. Some standouts that should provide the Sixers the defense they need include Paul George, Caleb Martin, and Kelly Oubre Jr. What were some key takeaways?
76ers Training Camp: Defense Outlook
Aside from the Sixers’ offensive caliber, the team also improved its defensive performance. This skill will be crucial as it completes the team’s 3-and-D performance. Also, the Philadelphia 76ers needed a quality defense unit to be part of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Speaking of a quality defense unit, Paul George already sees himself fitting into the team’s playbook defensively.
Paul George viewed himself, Caleb Martin, and Kelly Oubre Jr. as the Sixers players who can cause chaos in the perimeter. Also, the six-time All-NBA believed with Caleb and Kelly, they could “shrink the floor, shut the floor down, and lock up on the perimeter.” With the Sixers lacking enough size in the frontcourt, the team can do well with Paul George’s assistance. Nick Nurse revealed this when he spoke about Paul George in the previous training camps.
“I’ve been probably most impressed with the way he looks defensively. He’s doing things we want to do that we haven’t taught yet. He’s really got a good knack for where to be and what to do defensively.”
During the Sixers Media Day, Kelly Oubre said that fans should call the Sixers defense trio, which consists of Kelly, Caleb, and Paul, “The Plumbers” because they will be effective at shutting off other teams’ water. That means they would disrupt the opposing team’s offense to give the Sixers an advantage.
Caleb Martin was nothing short of impressive during this training camp. His teammates and coach expressed the positive impact of Caleb on the team. Also, Caleb revealed how he can help the team flourish on the defensive court
“I think I’m pretty good at organizing guys, communicating…letting guys know what’s going on behind them so they don’t have to turn their heads. I think that’s what I thrive with, and why it’s pretty easy to mesh with new groups pretty fast.”
Other Highlights From Training Camp: Ricky Council’s Role
The Sixers franchise offered Ricky Council a standard NBA contract last season after an impressive court performance during the regular season. The 23-year-old guard performed well during the 2024 summer league exhibit. Nick Nurse also spotted Ricky’s performance during this training camp.
During a training camp interview, the Sixers coach praised Ricky’s effort during the training. Also, Nick gave him the task of crashing the offensive glass, running the floor, defending, and taking open three-point opportunities. “I’m confident at some point during this year, he’ll have some stretches of considerable minutes.” – Nick Nurse on Ricky’s minutes.
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