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This year’s Sixers aren’t just their star-studded starting five

It was only one night, but beating the reigning NBA champions on their ring night was one hell of a way for the new-look Sixers to start the season. Unsurprisingly, the Sixers’ starting five led the way. Tyrese Maxey had…

By Bryan Toporek · Liberty Ballers

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 1:55 AM

Key Things to Know

Bryan Toporek argues that Philadelphia's bench depth makes the team a more legitimate championship contender this season.
Reserves Anfernee Simons scored 13 points and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope added 10 points in the season-opening win against the Knicks.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers' starting lineup with a team-high 28 points at Madison Square Garden.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Bryan Toporek of Liberty Ballers argues that the Philadelphia 76ers' bench depth makes them a true title contender beyond their star-studded starting lineup. Following an opening-night victory against the reigning champion New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, Toporek highlights that bench contributors provided vital offensive spacing and scoring.

While starters Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and VJ Edgecombe led the way, reserves Anfernee Simons scored 13 points and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope added 10. Toporek notes that this bench production offers crucial support for head coach Nick Nurse's rotation, contrasting with last season's playoff depth issues.

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This year’s Sixers aren’t just their star-studded starting five

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