Sixers win in OT, end road ...

Game to game, quarter to quarter, minute to minute I can't get a firm grasp on this team.

After hanging tough in the first quarter, the Sixers pulled away in the second. The Blazers then score the first 12 in the 3rd, and the teams run neck and neck until the Sixers pull away in overtime.

This road trip is the prime example of the enigma that is the Philadelphia 76ers. The wins against Portland and Los Angeles were exhilarating. The losses to the Warriors and Suns infuriating.

3-2 was the record I was aiming for to start the trip, but this was certainly not the way I envisioned them getting there.

This team is nothing if inconsistent. That probably means a short exit in the playoffs, but at the very least there should be some excitement along the way.

I haven't a clue who to give the game-ball to, as there are a good 4 people who deserve it. Thad, for his 11 third quarter points that kept the Sixers afloat after starting the half on a 12-0 Trailblazers run. Iguodala, for his excellent all-around game and late surge, Miller for carrying the team early. Even cases for Green (for his defense on Roy) and Dalembert (for his defensive stands down teh stretch) can be made, to varying degrees.

We'll call this a collective team effort, and the game ball can be shared among Miller, Iguodala and Thad. Considering the unselfish nature of the 3, that's probably appropriate.

Final mention tonight, it's great to watch Thad develop the way he has. The confidence he's playing with is a great thing to see in a 20 year old player, yet having the maturity to play within himself. 21.8 points per game in his last 10 games. Coming from a 20 year old playing out of position in the middle of a playoff push.