Does Sam Hinkie Need To Learn When To Hold Em?

Feb 7, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard K.J. McDaniels (14) looks to shoot during the fourth quarter of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at the Wells Fargo Center. The Sixers beat the Hornets 89-81. Mandatory Credit: John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports

K.J. McDaniels

K.J. McDaniels was a good player in a Sixers uniform. But as is the resounding theme, it’s difficult to retain good players on a team that is rebuilding.  He scored 9.2 PPG and generated 3.8 RPG.  He was athletic, understood the game, and has a huge upside.  But he was on a one year contract and the team was convinced that, having showcased his talents to the league, he would not be returning.  So they got something for him before he left.

Who that was is Isaiah Canaan.   We’ve taken a good look up Canaan’s projection for the Sixers in a recent article here:
Isaiah Canaan Is Player To Watch In 2015-16

The Sixers also picked up a second round draft pick. which translated into Bowling Green’s power forward Richaun Holmes.  Holmes is a curious prospect.  He’s been a player who has been under the radar, but has some good potential.

I like what  I’ve read and viewed on the young man.  But perhaps the best quote is from his former coach, Chris Jans.

"“Richaun is a great all-around player. That’s what I love the most about him. When a lot of guys make first-team All-MAC, it’s because of their scoring, but Richaun has developed into an all-around player. He scores inside, he knocks 3s down, he puts it on the floor, he rebounds the ball at a high level, and he’s the main reason we have been fairly successful on the defensive end.”"

So the Sixers give up a player with good upside for two players with good upside?  Oh… and by the way… the reaction grades for the trade gave the Rockets an A, and the Sixers a C.  But McDaniels didn’t exactly light it up in a Rockets unifrom, and Canaan kinda did.  So….. turnabout is fair play

Sixers grade:  A

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