Tacko Fall’s Injury Return Could Change the 76ers’ Entire Week at Center
Fall moves closer to debut
The 76ers began the season 3-1, but their frontcourt remains a concern. Injuries have limited the team’s choices at center, though Fall’s return to full practice participation offers a possible change.
Fall, a two-way big man, missed the entire preseason and Philadelphia’s first four games because of a hip strain. His practice status leaves open the possibility of making his 76ers debut this week.
Center depth remains an issue
Philadelphia’s rebounding has been a particular weakness. After Ariel Hukporti went down, Adem Bona was the team’s only available center, but he has recorded three rebounds or fewer in three of four appearances.
The article says Bona has not established himself as a dependable main backup. It suggests Philadelphia could elevate Fall from his two-way deal to the main roster for the week and give him a chance in that role.
Three games offer a test
The proposed opportunity would come against the Pacers, Knicks and Hornets. The article identifies Karl-Anthony Towns, Ivica Zubac, and Charlotte’s Naz Reid, Moussa Diabate and Ryan Kalkbrenner as frontcourt opponents Fall could face.
Those matchups could give coach Nick Nurse information about Fall’s ability to contribute against different kinds of centers and frontcourts. The result could help the team assess its rotation, whether Fall succeeds or struggles.
A chance to assess options
The article argues that keeping Fall to only a few minutes while continuing with Bona may leave Philadelphia with unanswered questions. It also notes that Bona averages 14.5 minutes per game, suggesting a larger role for Fall would not require a major change in playing time.
Fall’s performance could help the 76ers decide whether he can strengthen their center rotation or whether they need another solution. His return remains conditional on being cleared to play.
Key points
- Tacko Fall was a full participant at practice Tuesday after a hip strain.
- He missed the preseason and Philadelphia’s first four games.
- The 76ers face the Pacers, Knicks and Hornets this week.
- A larger role for Fall could help Philadelphia assess its center options.