Breaking down the Sixers' roster, player by player

Here is a breakdown of the Sixers' roster in alphabetical order:

TONY BATTIE: At 34, the center entering his 13th year should be counted on for his off-the-court presence more than anything else. But with this thin group, he'll also be asked to contribute about 10 or so minutes a game.

CRAIG BRACKINS: The rookie is very much a bright spot in the eyes of the coach and management. He is what the new wave of power forwards are - a big man who can shoot from distance and run the floor. Needs to improve his strength to get significant minutes.

ELTON BRAND: At 31, many may think he's lost a lot of his skills. That could be true, but he might be the fiercest competitor on the roster. And that is much needed on this team.

SPENCER HAWES: He is a very skilled offensive player, but very much a finesse one. That is a good thing in that he will make the speed game better with his passing game. He'll need to be strong inside defensively and be able to draw some fouls on the offensive end.

JRUE HOLIDAY: The second-year guard, who would have been entering his junior year in college, is entering his first season as a starter. Coach Doug Collins has said Holiday could be among the top five point guards in the league by next year. That seems like a lot of pressure, but pressure isn't something that seems to deter Holiday. It really seems to drive him. He is this team's future to build around.

ANDRE IGUODALA: On this team, he is the leader. His all-around game is something to marvel, but expecting him to be the superstar that this team needs is just too much. On a very good team, his skills shine even more. On this team, for now, it kind of gets wasted.

JASON KAPONO: When he is on the court, the team simply plays much better offensively. On a team that needs to slash in the halfcourt, he affords them that by extending the defense with his outside shooting. His defense isn't as bad as some might think.

JODIE MEEKS: He might be the most high-energy player on the team. He is a scorer, but getting his shots off from the "two" spot at 6-4 could be tough. Also, getting time behind Lou Williams and Evan Turner is an issue.

ANDRES NOCIONI: His toughness and outside shooting were something this organization desperately coveted. He will be a Philly fan favorite, if he can stay healthy. One of the few players on the team who can score consistently after contact.

MARREESE SPEIGHTS: This is the same old song with him - if he can improve his defense, he can be a key contributor. Alarmingly, he has been suffering many leg injuries - something to keep an eye on.

DARIUS SONGALIA: This team is thin up front. He will not be counted on for anything more than a few minutes of energy and toughness. But that is something that is sorely needed on this team.

EVAN TURNER: The rookie's head has been spinning more than a Brad Lidge slider. He will be shuffled between the "one" and "two" guard slots. He has to keep his head high and not get frustrated with learning the NBA game.

LOU WILLIAMS: Has been the best player of the preseason coming off the bench and providing scoring punch. It is the perfect role for him and one where he excels. Hopefully for him it will be one that matters a lot during the season.

THAD YOUNG: Quite simply, this is a make-or-break year for Young. He showed signs of stardom his first two seasons, but struggled mightily last year. His strength is the team's strength - slashing to the basket and running in the open floor. If he can hit his outside shot with some consistency, he will return to his promising form he exhibited his first two seasons.

- Bob Cooney