With a 16-13 record through their first 29 games, no one is probably penciling the Philadelphia 76ers in as title contenders this season. However, the season is only barely past its quarter mark, and there is still a chance that this team can convince a lot of people that they can make legitimate noise come playoff time.
Having said that, the 76ers actually do have some of the infrastructure needed to be included in the inner circle of championship contenders. Only very few people know this, but Philly is actually the best defensive team in the league in fourth quarters.