Brown eager to add Fultz into the mix
PHILADELPHIA » In a multi-layered blast of organization-speak Tuesday, the 76ers indicated that Markelle Fultz is nearing a return to game-night availability.
In a less complicated discussion Wednesday, Brett Brown hinted that the season could hinge on how quickly that happens.
“He completely connects the dots to what we don’t have,” the Sixers’ coach said before a 112106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. “Anybody who can create their own shot, anybody who can create something for somebody else is of extreme value to the collection of what we have. And that is his skill set.”
The No. 1 overall pick in the last draft, Fultz played in four games before being sidelined with a scapular muscle imbalance in his shoulder. According to the Sixers, he has “been cleared to begin the final stage of his return-to-play program. The program consists of gradual re-integration into team practices and training, complemented with additional work to support readiness for gameplay.”
So what does that mean for the Sixers this season?
“It’s a guess game,” Brown said. “It really is a complete guess. I’m always optimistic. You always try to see the good in people and the bright side of things. And when I watch him, I am excited.”
With the Sixers stuck at 1819, and with their owner having yelled that he does not want another return to the draft lottery, there is pressure on the players and coaches to reach the playoffs. Brown’s lament that the Sixers lack a player with the presumed ability of Fultz to create offense is an indication that the pressure is building.
“That is his skill set,” Brown said. “So what will we get out of him? How is he going to be integrated into the team when he gets back? That’s yet to be seen. But I remain highly, highly positive and highly optimistic.”
*** A basketball, and a break. Those were two things the always injury-challenged Joel Embiid conditioning fitness seemed unable to catch as recently as Tuesday.
His right hand injured late in the 76ers’ 123-110 New Year’s Eve victory in Phoenix, Embiid was considered “very doubtful” to play Wednesday, and was officially listed as “out” for the 7 o’clock game as late as 6:30.
But after warming up, he felt well enough to play, was cleared, and provided 21 points and 11 rebounds in 35:21 of playing time.
“It was completely unexpected,” Brown said. “And I give him credit for playing through complete pain and trying to play in front of Philadelphia fans and help his teammates. That’s a gutsy effort.”
Embiid termed the pre-game reversal “my decision.”
“I wanted to play and push through,” he said. “I love my team and I wanted to play.”
Embiid, who said before the game that he couldn’t shoot, reported continuing pain afterward. He was not anticipating undergoing an MRI procedure.
“I just have to ice it,” he said, “and hope that it gets better.”
*** In a tight game, the Spurs went to a late strategy to deliberately send Ben Simmons to the free throw line. Simmons made four of his final foul shots to help the Sixers run a winning streak to three.
Simmons’ reaction to the San Antonio strategy? “Free shots,” he said, smiling. Simmons shot 10-for-15 from the line and scored 26 points.
*** Spurs coach Gregg Popovich won his 1,176th NBA game Tuesday in New York, moving past George Karl and into fifth place on the all-time list.
“Think of that number,” said Brown, his former assistant. “I look at him, and that program is a machine. He is an NBA coach. He is a consistent, all day, every day, 20-whatever-years, makes the playoffs every year, 1,176 victories ... just the consummate NBA coach.”
Popovich was denied Win No. 1,117, with Brown defeating the Spurs for the first time as a head coach. He had been 0-8.
*** NOTES » The Sixers will entertain the Detroit Pistons Friday, then prepare for a trip to London, where next Thursday they will play a “home” game against the Boston Celtics Skeptics will wonder if there will be an emphasis on keeping Joel Embiid healthy for that showcase. “I wouldn’t use that as a, ‘Let’s polish him up for London,’” Brown said. “If he’s good to go for Detroit, then he’s good to go. I don’t think we are going to walk on eggshells with the end game being that we have to deliver him to overseas. I don’t see that.” ... Point guard T.J. McConnell will accept the “Good Guy” award from the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association at their 114th dinner Mon., Jan. 15, at the Crowne Plaza in Cherry Hill, N.J. For tickets, visit www. phillysportswriters.com.