A big criticism of the Sixers in the offseason was that they couldn’t win with Andre Iguodala as their star. Well, what if Elton Brand and Evan Turner are stars as well?
With Iguodala out with an injury, Turner stepped into the starting lineup for the first time in his young career and took full advantage with 14 points (6-11 field goals) and 10 rebounds in a 106-96 win at the New York Knicks.
After a disappointing season last year, Elton Brand is exceeding expectations thus far this season. Brand had 20 points (7-11 field goals) and seven rebounds in Sunday’s win. He is averaging more than 18 points and eight rebounds per game through the first seven games.
Lou?Williams shot poorly from the field off the bench (3-12 field goals) but managed to score 19 points after knocking down 12 of 14 free-throws.
Jrue Holiday had a solid game with 19 points, eight assists and only two turnovers. He shot 4-of-5 from 3-point range.
The Sixers trailed by a point after the third quarter, but outscored the Knicks 26-15 in the fourth, Trailing 94-93 in the final minutes, the Sixers went on a decisive 9-0 run.
Amare Stoudemire led the Knicks with 21 points and 15 rebounds.
The Sixers (2-5) will now go on a tough four-game road trip at Oklahoma City, Dallas, San Antonio and Cleveland before returning home next Wednesday to host the Raptors.
