Sixers Beat the Wiz

Here's a riddle for you: How can a team possibly come away with a win when the following set of circumstances transpire?

• 38.5% field goal percentage
• 0/14 from three
• Andre Iguodala + Kyle Korver = 5/29 from the field (17%)

The answer?

• Only commit 8 turnovers
• Force 18 turnovers
• Hit 13/14 free throws in the fourth quarter
• Don't allow your opponent to attempt any free throws in the fourth quarter
• Trust that Andre Iguodala is such a dynamic force, he will influence the game in a positive way even when his shot isn't falling.

That was the formula the Sixers used to overcome the horrendous shooting stats they compiled tonight. It came down to the buzzer, but Andre Iguodala led this team to an 85-84 victory over the Wizards, and the W is all that matters.

We've already documented Iguodala's shooting, but take a look at his peripheral stats: 12 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks. He never hung his head, not even when he missed 14 consecutive shots, he buckled down on defense and found other ways to put this team on his shoulders. That's what stars do.

The Sixers head up the Turnpike to face the well-rested Nets in the swamp tomorrow night, and if you're looking for them to collect their first two-game winning streak of the season, it's going to be an uphill battle. Mo Cheeks basically used a 7-man rotation tonight. Jason Smith, the 8th, only saw 5 minutes of action. This was made possible by Sammy's ability to stay out of foul trouble. The Sensation finished with only 3 fouls, but 18 points, 11 boards, 1 and 3 blocks. Mo went for the win tonight, he'll worry about tomorrow, tomorrow. Which is exactly what he should've done.

Cheeks went extremely small for stretches in the fourth. At one point he had Andre Miller, Lou Williams, Willie Green, Kyle Korver and Reggie Evans on the floor.  No complaints from me at all after this hard-fought win. Be prepared for a heavy dose of Jason Smith, Rodney Carney and hopefully Thad Young as well tomorrow night. That game will be a tall order, but I think the Sixers are up to the task.

Player of The Game: Sammy.
Team Record: 5-10