Random Thoughts As Philadelphia Sports Is On “Slight” Edge
by John Kincade
JAMES HARDEN PLEASE BE HEALTHY
There are only 11 games left in the regular season. The 76ers are currently even in the loss column with the Celtics so the 2 seed in the East is very much up for grabs. That is what makes what happened Monday night vs the Bulls so frustrating. For one thing the loss dropped them back even in the loss column, but James Harden being injured is a greater concern. All season long he has been battling a foot injury and it appears that he tweaked his Achilles. Doc Rivers was very coy and we will find out later today if he is going to help them get revenge on the Bulls tonight. He shot 2/14 from the floor and had only 5 points. It was a terrible game. Even a mediocre game would have been enough to win that game. That loss could be the difference between a Home Game 7 being in Boston or Philadelphia. I can’t take another Spring of wondering what if? Harden has to be ready go.
HOWIE ROSEMAN HAS TO JUMP START THE YOUTH MOVEMENT
The Eagles have two picks in the first round in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. They will enjoy having 3 picks in the first 2 rounds the next 2 drafts. Since Howie Roseman decided to get the veteran gang back together again, the ability to draft their replacements is immediate. They will have one of the oldest starting cornerback duos in the NFL. They need a youngster in that room. They will have to add a few more edge rushers. A starting running back is definitely on the shopping list in case Penny doesn’t rebound from his injury history. This draft and last years that brought Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean to town will be as big a chapter in “The Story of Howie” as his Super Bowl berths. This is about sustaining. You can’t have a young franchise QB signed to a big money deal and then collapse.
THE PHILLIES HAVE TO COME TOGETHER QUICKLY
The World Baseball Classic is finally over and some fans enjoyed it. The majority of those fans were outside of the United States. It grew its audience internationally but hardly moved the needle among USA Baseball fans. I watched the highlights of most games to be completely honest, but when I was watching I was holding my breath. The fear of injury for the Phillies players was enough to take away from my enjoyment. I understand that the players care about the event and celebrate the competition. I feel about it like I do the Eagles pre-season. I’m just hoping that there won’t be an injury. It was great seeing Trea Turner thrive and dominate, but I’m a fan of my team. They will now have 6 days to come together as a team and attempt to gel. A slow start won’t keep them from a post season berth as last season proved, but the divisional race was over before it ever began. If you want a packed house all summer and a chance to break the Braves NL East Division domination streak, how you play early will matter. If this team is in great position BEFORE Bryce Harper returns it’s going to be a wild ride!
