In Allen Iverson's absence, The Sixers need leadership from another source. While Aaron McKie and Derrick Coleman have played well and come up big when necessary, and Dikembe Mutumbo continues to anchor the defense and control the boards, Eric Snow has risen his game to a new level.

Marc Narducci of the Inquirer reports that Snow has averaged 17 points per game with Iverson on the mend. That's more than 5 points above his season average of 11.5 points. Despite the offensive boost, Snow has earned his reputation for shutting down big scorers. Last week, the Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant gave Snow the ultimate compliment when asked to name the toughest defender he faced.

"I would say Eric Snow," Bryant said. "He is extremely intelligent, knows the angles, and combines his experience and strength to do a great job." Those comments, made before last Wednesday's New Jersey Nets-Lakers game, found their way back to Snow.

"To have a person who I think is the best all-around player in the league - what else can you say?" Snow said. "We had the conversation before, and he told me I moved my feet well and I study the game. I marvel at how well he has performed and how good he is, and for him to say that is a great compliment."