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Philadelphia 76ers: 3 reasons why the Sixers will win the Eastern Conference

By Michael Saenz

Philadelphia 76ers Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)
Philadelphia 76ers Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Philadelphia 76ers Tobias Harris (Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports) /

Reason No. 2 why the Philadelphia 76ers will win the East: Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris have taken their games to another level

Not only does Ben Simmons have a more defined role this season, but Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris have both taken their games to the next level this season. We know what Embiid has done this season as he’s one of the frontrunners to win the NBA MVP award this season. Embiid is averaging a career-high in points (29.6), field goal percentage (52%), and 3-point percentage (38%). He’s also averaging 11 rebounds and three assists per game.

However, it’s what Harris has done this season that has really changed the course of the Sixers. Harris is enjoying the best statistical season of his career thus far and has emerged as the team’s second option on the offensive end.

Harris is averaging 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists on a career-high 52 percent shooting from the field and 40 percent from 3-point range. The key for Philly’s playoff success could very well fall on Harris and whether he can continue to be that consistent offensive player for the team in the postseason.

If he can, it would take the pressure off Embiid and allow Simmons to continue to play in a role that seems to suit him best. For now, I’ll buy that Harris will be able to do that. If so, it will make the Sixers a force to deal with in the playoffs.