Rights To Ricky Sanchez: The Sixers Podcast The Two Sides Of Embiid, Are The Sixers Just 'Pretty Good', Meet The Statman
Jan 19, 2026
In this discussion, data scientist Beckett Sanderson joins to shed light on college basketball analytics and the current state of the Sixers. He dives into Joel Embiid’s offensive prowess contrasted with defensive struggles, and evaluates Tyrese Maxey's recent challenges. Beckett shares insights on Jared McCain’s fit within the team and assesses the Sixers’ overall performance, branding them as solid but flawed. The conversation takes a quirky turn with rapid-fire hypotheticals, showcasing Beckett’s humor and love for the game.
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Embiid’s Two-Sided Impact
- Joel Embiid is excellent offensively but creates defensive vulnerabilities, especially in transition.
- The Sixers show top-3 defense when Embiid is off the floor and worst transition defense when he's on it.
Focus Lapses Fuel Opponents’ Open Threes
- The Sixers' defensive performance often reflects shot-luck and focus lapses more than structural flaws.
- Opponents' relocation and ball movement exploit slight undisciplined moments and create open threes.
Maxey’s Highs Mask Late-Game Risks
- Tyrese Maxey provides strong defensive counting stats but still has occasional undisciplined moments.
- Those lapses matter in late-game defense and could be exposed more in the playoffs.