Sixers-Wizards takeaways: Justin Edwards keeps shining; Will Smith is honored

The 76ers celebrated Will Smith. Phillip Wheeler had a busy day, and the game is slowing down for Justin Edwards. Those three things stood out for the Sixers in Wednesday’s 119-114 loss to the Washington Wizards at the Wells Fargo Center.

Will Smith Day

Smith, a West Philly born rapper, actor and icon, was in attendance Wednesday morning when the 2000 block of North 59th Street was renamed Will Smith Way in his honor.

Then, Smith was the bell ringer ahead of the Sixers' game against the Wizards, where fans were treated to his songs all night.

Wheeler feels blessed

Wheeler signed a 10-day deal with the Sixers after participating in the morning shootaround with the Maine Celtics in Westchester, N.Y. He rushed to a car with his agent and arrived at the Wells Fargo Center shortly after 4 p.m.

Wheeler participated in the Sixers walkthrough. Then he finished with four points, four rebounds, and two assists in his Sixers’ debut Wednesday night. “It’s a blessing, honestly,” he said. “This morning I woke up. I didn’t think I was going to be here. It’s a blessing and an opportunity.”

Edwards’ game

The rookie forward had another solid game, finishing with 19 points on 9-for-15 shooting to go with 10 rebounds and a game-high five steals. Some may point out that Wednesday’s game was against the equivalent of the G League squad.

But Edwards has still shown a lot of progression with his ability to get wherever he wants to get on the floor. “Like I said before, the game is just slowing down a little bit more for me,” he said. “So, whenever I’m open I’m just taking a good look at it, and if I feel like I’m confident in my shot, I’ll shoot it."