Nick Nurse highlighted the new guard duo on Sunday, calling Anfernee Simons and Labaron Philon Jr. "important" pieces for Philadelphia. He praised both as handlers who can run pick-and-roll and finish at the rim, describing them as "super athletes."
Nurse emphasized that the addition of Simons and Philon makes the team "faster and a lot more athletic," while acknowledging that the roster "might be a touch small at times." The focus on speed suggests the Sixers are willing to trade some size for the ability to push the ball up the floor.
The backcourt now blends proven scoring with youthful upside. Tyrese Maxey remains the primary offensive engine, and the June trade that brought Jaylen Brown from Boston adds a veteran scorer with perimeter versatility. Simons, a proven NBA scorer, and Philon, a recent draft pick from Alabama, round out a trio capable of creating off the dribble.
From a schematic standpoint, the faster guard combination expands the Sixers' pick-and-roll options and opens up transition opportunities. Simons' ability to attack the basket paired with Philon's off-ball movement can free Maxey and Brown for open looks. However, the "touch small" remark signals that the coaching staff will need to protect the paint with disciplined rotations, possibly relying on a big who can defend without slowing the new tempo.
The comments arrive amid a flurry of offseason activity, including ongoing LeBron James rumors that have kept the front office busy. While a James addition would bring veteran leadership, Nurse’s remarks underscore confidence in the current roster construction centered around Maxey, Brown, Simons, and Philon.
The Summer League will serve as the first real test for the guard combination, with training camp slated to begin in early August. Nurse will likely evaluate how Simons and Philon adapt to the Sixers' pace before finalizing regular-season rotations, and the next few weeks will reveal whether the speed upgrade can sustain Philadelphia’s championship aspirations.
