Philadelphia 76ers: 3 key observations after first 10 games

1. The Embiid and Simmons duo

While we somewhat knew what to expect from Embiid, Simmons’ impact has simply exceeded all expectations.

Entering the season with a limited preparation due to an extensive knee rehabilitation process, Embiid has steadily returned to the dominant form we saw during his time on the court last season. Playing in eight of the first 10 games, Embiid has averaged 20.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks in just 27.6 minutes per game. Much like last season, the Sixers have been a superior team when Embiid has been on the court, overall being 16.0 points per 100 possessions better off when he’s on the floor.

As for Simmons, his numbers are in rare company for a rookie. Playing all 10 games, Simmons is averaging 17.8 points, 10.1 rebounds, 8.0 assists and 1.7 steals in 35.3 minutes per game. Having missed all of last season with a foot injury after being selected No. 1 overall, Simmons already plays with the poise and assurance of a veteran.

Already with two triple-doubles under his belt, the following tweet gives a great summation as to just how far Simmons has come in such a short period:

Following the Sixers most recent win on the road over the Utah Jazz, their head coach Quin Snyder was full of praise for Simmons:

"“He’s unique….There aren’t many guys that big who are able to handle the ball as effectively as he is against smaller guys….If you have a smaller guy on him, he’s capable of going into the post and seeing over them. If you have a bigger guy on him, his ball skills — both passing and dribbling — are superior. I think it’s safe to say he’s one of the best passers in the league. “For his size, I don’t know that anybody handles the ball better. There are a number of things that are there that make him a different player, a unique player. That’s why you see triple-doubles.”"

Having missed the Sixers’ most recent game due to what the team called “load management,” Embiid is sure to be fresh having enjoyed a six-day break between his last game played.

Next: 2017-18 Week 4 NBA Power Rankings

So brimming with confidence, and next facing a Sacramento Kings team with a 2-8 record on the year, the Sixers have every reason to be believe they can extend their current winning streak, and further propel themselves up the standings.