Random Thoughts during our Open House Week
by John Kincade
76ers don’t have a path to a championship without a move up
The 76ers have 25 games left down the stretch in order to track down better seeding in the Eastern Conference. Hearing discussion this week on The Fanatic it seems as if the listeners are resolved to finishing behind the Bucks and the Celtics. I don’t believe that there is a path to the championship IF the 76ers have to get by both the Bucks and Celtics. I’m not being fatalistic, but the terrain to navigate in the East is brutal. I don’t believe there is reason to believe that you beat both those teams unless they can secure home court through at least two rounds.
These first 6 games after the break will tell us a lot about where this team is heading. Now that the rumors of a James Harden return to Houston are picking up, the clock ticks louder each day. This team not only has expectations, it has a deadline. Without a championship run this year, I’m not sure where anyone could predict one coming in the near future.
The Eagles have their next important season ahead this next month
The Eagles are coming the longest season they have played in 5 seasons. It’s even one week later than the year of their Super Bowl title. That puts them up against it while trying to address a series of issues. When Nick Sirianni lost both of his coordinators, the opportunity to replace them became more of a challenge. The top candidates were already flooding towards the open jobs that were filled throughout the playoffs. The Eagles must find their replacements amongst the leftovers.
Then the free agency tag must be applied by next week and it is expected to be used on Chauncey Gardner Johnson IF they don’t come to an agreement before then. If they can lock him down before hand they could decide to tag another position which would help secure a stronger roster. Free Agency starts right after that and you never know what target Howie has that we aren’t expecting.
It’s difficult to turn the page after an amazing run. The Eagles have a lot of items on the shopping list and the pickings appear quite thin.
The Phillies 2023 season commences in Clearwater
There are so many reasons to be excited about the Phillies upcoming season. Much like the Eagles challenge, the Phillies had to create new buzz and fill the holes on their roster. They have completely bolstered their bullpen, added a quality 3rd/4th starter and signed one of the top free agents in years to play shortstop. The Phillies have done everything ho show the Braves and Mets that they aren’t just playing for a wildcard berth. It’s so refreshing to sense that excitement.
Open House Week
It has been a star studded, energized week during our live broadcasts in Open House Week. The show has been full of unexpected moments and great interactions with our listeners. We thank everyone for listening everyday and hope that the live studio broadcasts are something you will be able to work into your future schedules!
