Nets at Sixers open thread 01/31/09

The last time these two teams met was immediately after a win against the Pistons that had me convinced that things were turning around. Then the game against the Nets happened. It was a huge disappointment. It even lead me to write this recap. As a Sixers fan I had hit rock bottom. The only thing I remember about that game was Devin Harris carrying my fantasy team and completely destroying the Sixers in the process.

That was then and this is now. The Sixers are a completely different team. That team was coached by Mo Cheeks. This team is coached by Tony DiLeo. That team was without Elton Brand. This team has an Elton Brand that is just now rounding into form. That team had Sammy D and Marreese Speights starting. Yeah, Marreese Speights. I forgot he had ever started. And that team also had a struggling Iguodala starting at the two. And struggling is an understatement. Whether it was just a slow start for the Igg-man or a position switch, the numbers are ridiculous. When he started at the "two" for 21 games, he averaged 14 points and shot 42%. Since then, he's moved to the "three" and averaged 20 points a game on 51% shooting. That's a huge difference, and guess where he'll be starting tonight? Small Forward. Although this is nothing new, the Nets have yet to witness the power of small forward Iggy, so I hope they're ready.

In other news, it looks like Elton will replace Sammy D in the starting lineup. Having a 6'8'' center will be interesting. I know Brand is more than capable, but I also know Brook Lopez has been pretty dang good lately, so that will be an interesting match-up to watch. Lopez is also a member of the greatest fantasy team on the planet.

Ultimately, I see another Sixers victory going down tonight. Anything else would be a disappointment.

7 p.m. eastern. Be here.

Now I'm off to play my with my newest toy and drink gallons of water. See ya in a couple hours.