Samuel

Dalembert

Expected to start at center and be a nice source of blocked shots and other stats, Dalembert explains: “I’m still getting caught up and not having confidence in my teammates more. Instead of doing what I’m supposed to do, I’m more worried about my own man.” On Tuesday against New Orleans, Dalembert fouled out in 15 minutes and didn’t block a single shot. Reign in your expectations just a notch.

The Sixers likely will activate Dalembert, who has missed the season because of knee surgery, before the playoffs begin.

It appears that the team will wait until Dalembert becomes a restricted free agent next summer to sign him.

He should be considered day-to-day.

The test revealed no damage and Dalembert caught the end of Thursday’s practice. He should be able to play tonight.

Dalembert shot 7-for-8 from the field in relief of Kenny Thomas. He’s still quite raw and not worth a fantasy roster spot, but the Sixers like what they have in the quick and agile big man.

“We’ll see,” the coach said after practice yesterday. “We’ll see how he keeps developing. If Derrick [Coleman] is available and can play, Derrick will always start.” We understand giving respect to the veteran, but have to respectfully disagree with Ayers. Coleman is an excellent candidate to be one of the first guys off the bench -- it would keep him fresh and he could dominate other reserves. Additionally, Dalembert could develop very quickly into a dominant center in the Eastern Conference. For now, Dalembert is worth owning as a No. 2 center, and could become quite valuable if he becomes a full-time starter.

He was very ill with the flu, and his hip problem is still lingering. He is still day-to-day.

He could return for tomorrow’s game in Charlotte.

“We’re trying. We’re really trying,” King said. “We’re really talking. I’d like to get another pick higher up. I’ll have some conversations, and, hopefully, we can get something done.” As for rumors that Samuel Dalembert will be traded, King added “Absolutely not, I have not given up on Sam,” he said.