Despite Victory, LeBron James Still Changes Everything for 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers improved to 3-0 on the season after defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 127-116.

However, the score doesn’t truly tell the story. It may seem like a blowout, but it was much closer than it should have been. LeBron James sat out with back management, and it was clear that the team missed their Hall of Fame veteran. 

Many would say that it doesn’t matter how they won as long as the number in the win column increases; they couldn’t be more wrong. The 76ers seemed to be in some disarray as it turned into a bit of streetball with players trying their hand at scoring with the ball. When James is on the floor, there's a sense of order to the game. Make no mistake, the offense did what it was supposed to do against the Bucks, but the defense was a letdown at times.

Whenever the 76ers were in a pinch, James was there to provide guidance. Early in the second quarter, there was none of that as Milwaukee went on a 28-4 run that resulted in them taking a brief lead in the game. This was the cause of stagnant offense and miscommunication. When you’re playing a team like Milwaukee by the time you get to the fourth quarter, the reserves should be in to play, especially with a team as stacked as the 76ers.

This could be a small warning that when the 76ers have to face a formidable opponent like the Boston Celtics, this may not be enough to win. Always remember that scoring is never the issue with this team; it’s all of the other intangibles that could change the landscape of this team. Not closing out, missing your assignment and allowing an easy lane to the basket, as well as not boxing out, are just a few of the things that can allow a team to get back in a game.

That’s the missing link that James brings to the team. This team a year ago was involved in numerous close games that resulted in losses, and this game was a reminder of why they went to acquire James. When he is on the floor, he covers up some of the weak spots like the center position. Without James, it was about Adem Bona and Jabari Walker. Walker had some good moments, but Bona struggled. In any other scenario, James would take that position, and when he has, it led to turnovers that fueled the 76ers' offense. 

It was only one game, but the difference is night and day. If this is going to be a championship team, James may need to be available more than expected.