Sixers should put energy in getting Smith

Reports out of Philadelphia today say they 76ers are financially strengthening their pursuit for Elton Brand. They could probably save a little money and pursue a younger, more athletic Josh Smith, who would make an already athletic 76ers team even more so. Smith won’t produce the offensive numbers that Brand will, but he’s no slouch at a little over 17 points per game and he would provide tremendously more intimidation guarding the basket. It remains to be seen if Brand will still have the explosiveness he had before the knee operation. Also, Brand may have already played his best basketball. Smith has yet to play his. Every team in the league should be fighting each other to get Josh Smith. There might not be another player like him in the league now — or possibly ever. A shot-blocking, rebounding force with a 3-point shot, energy and athleticism. Smith is a special player and he’s on his way up. Atlanta can’t let this man walk.