76ers' Nerlens Noel: Posts well-rounded stats in second straight start

Noel recorded 12 points (5-6 FG, 2-3 FT), seven rebounds, three steals, two blocks, and one assist in 28 minutes during Monday's 105-99 win over the Hornets.

Analysis:

Making his second straight start at center with Joel Embiid (knee) sidelined and a potential Jahlil Okafor trade looming, Noel's solid two-way showing helped the 76ers earn consecutive victories. During these last two tilts, Noel has been efficient and effective, and he figures to receive at least one more start before the All-Star break when the 76ers face the Celtics on Wednesday. In six starts this season, Noel is averaging 14.2 points (on 64.8 percent from the field and 78.9 from the charity stripe), 7.3 rebounds, 2.3 steals, 1.8 assists, and 1.7 blocks in 27.0 minutes. Meanwhile, he is managing just 7.1 points (on 58.6 from the field and 61.9 from the free-throw line), 4.2 rebounds, 1.1 steals, 0.7 assists, and 0.7 blocks in 16.9 minutes during 22 games off the bench.