After Spencer Hawes practiced Tuesday --- and with Evan Turner now in the starting lineup --- Sixers coach Doug Collins felt like the Sixers had become better this week no matter what happens at the Thursday trade deadline.

“Spencer is ball friendly,” Collins said. “And as a big guy, he can space the floor. He has a very good ability of being a pressure-release if the shot clock is working against you. He cane make a play or take a shot himself. And you need those guys at the end of the clock when something is breaking down.

“Spencer is not going to beat you off the dribble, but he is going to be ball friendly and help you in a short clock.”

Sixers owner Joshua Harris, CEO Adam Aron and president Rod Thorn were at practice ... a hint that the Sixers will not rest as the deadline approaches. Afterward, they met with Collins.

“I think Rod has been on the phones, and Josh is here,” Collins said. “The deadline is coming around, but I would be shocked if we did anything big. Could we add a little piece? Possibly. We have a meeting before we leave.”

Check out the complete Sixers coverage in the Daily Times Wednesday and, as always, on delcotimes.com