In a vacuum, losing Jimmy Butler and adding Al Horford is a net loss. Even in context, there’s no denying Butler’s talent and usefulness as a halfcourt shot creator. But one area where Horford exponentially boosts the Philadelphia 76ers is load management.
After overworking Embiid early last season, the Sixers (and the big man) are committed to a more measured approach in 2019-20. That means rest days and limited minutes — a similar plan to the one that kept Kawhi Leonard fueled until the end in Toronto.
Last season, when the Sixers rested Embiid it meant borderline implosion.