The case against tanking

Well there's an important game to be won tonight against the now Gasol-less Grizzlies. It's important not to take this one for granted. No, Memphis' record is far from impressive (14-37), this has all the makings of a trap game, with the All-Star break immediately following the game. Still, if the Sixers can keep their focus and keep playing good defense, they should take care of business. That would give them five straight heading into the break, and plenty of momentum to build on for the rest of the year. In terms of standings, the Sixers in ninth place and a game back of the Nets and Hawks, who play Toronto and Charlotte tonight, respectively.

This brings me to the next issue: Is it a good thing for this team to keep winning? Or should they lose and hope for a good draft pick?

Admittedly, the though of Michael Beasley, Derrick Rose or Eric Gordon playing in Philly is enticing. However I can't fathom rooting for this team to tank if there's a shot at the playoffs.

I hear all of you out there. The eighth seed in the Eastern Conference is meaningless, you say. Why does making the playoffs matter if you're just going to lose in the first round. I think these people are missing the point. The whole point of a fan is to root for you team through thick and thin. Pulling for losses seems just not right to me.

Plus, I disagree with the fact there's nothing at stake her. I think in Philadelphia, there's so much emphasis on winning a championship that we forget that there's more to a successful season. For this team, with its youth, inexperience, and lack of a dynamic scorer, to make the playoffs is a heck of an accomplishment. All we need as fans is a reason to cheer, something to rally behind. And if that reason to get behind the Sixers is the fight for the eighth seed, than so be it. I'm on board.

From a team standpoint, making the playoffs shouldn't be seen as a roadblock to a great pick, but a reason to be encouraged about this young team. And don't forget, an improving young team might look enticing to a free agent or two (ala, Gilbert Arenas or RFA Josh Smith). In case you forgot, the Sixers will be under the cap this summer for the first time this century. So screw tanking for the draft, trading Andre Miller for nothing and giving up on the whole thing. Let's beat Memphis tonight and keep this thing going.

Speaking of the Grizzles, there's been a few stories I've read linking the Sixers to a trade for Kyle Lowery. There a story about it in the Inquirer today. On the surface it makes sense. He's a young point guard who grew up in Philly and went to Cardinal Dougherty High School. And I don't doubt the Sixers aren't interested, it's just hard to see something happening. The Sixers would likely have to give up some younger players for Lowery, something I can't see them willing to do.

As far as other trade winds, word is Jason Kidd is close to being dealt by the Nets. Keep your eye on this one. It would open things up even more for the Sixers to make a push at the 8th seed.

Phew, I think that's enough for today. Until tomorrow...