Starting spots up for grabs as training camp starts for Sixers

Nerlens Noel was impressive in the Orlando Summer League, particularly on the defensive end. Credit: Getty Images

For the first time in many years, the Sixers will have themselves a very interesting training camp when it comes to position battles on the court. As long as they’re healthy, Michael Carter-Williams and Nerlens Noel seem to have firmly secured their starting jobs, but others will be dueling it out when camp gets underway next week.

Carter-Williams, the reigning Rookie of the Year, will get the starting nod at point guard, but it’s still unknown whether coach Brett Brown will decide to run Noel at the center or power forward spots at the start of the season.

The competition for the starting shooting guard spot will likely be between Hollis Thompson and Tony Wroten, but veteran Jason Richardson figures to be in the mix as well if he’s finally healthy. Thompson started 41 games last season for the Sixers, averaging six points and 3.2 rebounds per game. Wroten, who started only 16 games, averaged 13 points, 3.2 rebounds and three assists. Thompson shined however at Orlando Pro Summer League, averaging 13 points, eight rebounds and 3.2 assists in four games.

Small forward and whichever position Noel doesn’t play will be the other two spots to keep an eye on during training camp. Rookie K.J. McDaniels will likely start at small forward, unless Brown thinks Thompson’s experience and offensive capabilities might overshadow McDaniels’ defensive potential. If Noel starts at center, it will be interesting to see the battle between Arnett Moultrie, Ronald Roberts Jr. and Jerami Grant for the power forward spot. If Noel starts at power forward, Henry Sims will likely man the paint at center.

Training camp will be held at Stockton College in Galloway, N.J. from Sept. 30 through Saturday, Oct. 4.