Jrue Holiday Feels The 76ers Can Contend

The Philadelphia 76ers changed the makeup of their team this offseason by swapping swingman Andre Iguodala for All-Star center Andrew Bynum and experienced shooting guard Jason Richardson. While Bynum looks to be the team’s leader and go-to guy, Jrue Holiday will be looked to for leadership as well. The fourth-year point guard has been one of the 76ers’ biggest contributors since being selected 17th overall in 2009 and has helped the team make consecutive playoff appearances. In 2010-11 they lost in the first round, in 2011-12 they made it to the second round, and in 2012-13 he sees more progress on the horizon.

“Oh for sure,” Holiday said to HOOPSWORLD when asked if the 76ers can contend. “I think definitely because of what happened last year and what people saw. Heart goes a long way and just being able to fight. The pieces that we added have everything that we want and are good teammates to make us a good team

“I think the pieces we added are going to take us to that next level, especially with the shooters we have. We struggled with scoring last year, but I don’t think we will this year. And, we have one of the best big men in the league. I think we’re on the right path.”

Despite the increased expectations and being in a contract year, Holiday isn’t feeling much more pressure than in years past.

“Not really,” Holiday said. “All I have to do is pass the ball to Dorrell (Wright), J-Rich, Nick (Young) and wait for them to make the shots. It’s going to be fun.

“As a point guard, trying to set these guys up, it’s more fun. Especially when you’re around guys who have been playing the game for so long and really knowing how to play the game for so long. So, it’s a learning experience as well as fun.”

What also makes the game fun for Holiday and the rest of his teammates is the freedom they have to push the ball when the opportunity presents itself. Even though they just added one of the best big men in the game in Bynum, they’re going to continue to speed up the tempo when they don’t run through him in the halfcourt.

“I think we tried last year,” Holiday said. “We got a lot of easy points off of fast breaks. Maalik (Wayns) is probably the fastest guy on the team. He gets to the basket easy. Pushing the ball is definitely something we want to do every game.”

With plenty of experience under his belt, Holiday looks poised for a big year. His comfort level is as high as it’s ever been, as his confidence.

“I guess I have (felt like I belong and am an elite guard) for a while now,” Holiday said. “I’m just feeling comfortable on this team, being a part of it and being able to contribute. The Sixers showing me I’m one of the core guys who they kept here feels really good.

“It’s weird to say but I’m one of the longest guys who has been here and I’ve only been here four years, or I’m going into my fourth year. But, it’s comfortable. I already know the system, what coach wants and I just kind of have to relay it on to the new guys.”

If Holiday does indeed thrive this year and Bynum lives up to his potential, the 76ers could have a one-two punch that not only makes them contenders this year, but many years to come.