Since the last update (Dec. 10), not much has changed for your Philadelphia 76ers in regards to their playoff hopes. With four wins and thirty-four losses, their record is still extremely disappointing. Despite the numbers, the 76ers hope to salvage some player development out of the season. Here’s a look at your hometown team at about its midway point.

The backcourt has been changed up quite a bit with the acquisition of point guard Ish Smith from the New Orleans Pelicans. Nik Stauskas has been moved to the bench in favor of a now healthy Isaiah Canaan at the shooting guard position. Meanwhile, at the small forward position, JaKarr Sampson has been starting over Jerami Grant.

However, nothing has changed in the frontcourt, with twin towers Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafor making their presence felt.

While the starting lineup is extremely important, veteran presence in the locker room is the key to a championship team. While the 76ers are far from that level, the organization brought in former player Elton Brand for another purpose. Brand will serve as a mentor to the young and upcoming talent Jahlil Okafor, not only in terms of basketball but also for off the court behavior as well.

Okafor has recently had unfavorable encounters as of late, and new hire in the front office, as well as the director of USA Basketball, Jerry Colangelo, hopes Brand can steer him in the right direction.

Even though the team may not be headed for postseason glory this year, this young group of players is extremely exciting to watch. The 76ers’ rebuilding process will hopefully send them into the postseason in the next couple of years.