Julius Erving Supports Sam Hinkie, Sixers’ New Plan
By John Adair
“The Doctor” has spoken. Julius Erving has recently voiced his support of the Sixers’ new blueprint for success and hiring of general manager Sam Hinkie.
The Hall of Famer is telling 76ers fans to stay patient. Everyone including Erving knows that Philadelphia will not be a viable contender next season, but with time, he fully expects the Sixers to be in the running for their first title since his own playing days.
"“I think that the ownership group has an agenda set for winning. What happened to us last year with getting damaged goods [in center Andrew Bynum], hopefully it will only happen once. That’s the extent of that learning curve. Hopefully, we can be a contender under this ownership group . . . They have a commitment to Philadelphia and I think they’ll fulfill it.”"
Clearly, Erving has confidence in Josh Harris, Sam Hinkie, and the rest of the Sixers’ organization. While nobody fully understands what Hinkie’s approach will be, it is something new for Sixers fans. Erving was asked about what he thought about the fresh prospective of Hinkie.
"“Analytics? You want to explain what that is? Analytics is the kind of thing that only matters if you win. I would be a proponent of that if the team wins.”"