The Europeans Are Coming! The Europeans Are Coming!

Apr 11, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Furkan Aldemir (19) reacts to a foul call against the Chicago Bulls during the third quarter at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Any Room For Us?

But what about the Europeans? Do they have a place on this team? Well if you consider the first to arrive is Furkan Aldemir, then the answer is a resounding yes. How so? The Sixers acquired the rights to Aldemir due to his defense and rebounding abilities. But a diamond in the rough, Aldemir displayed a 50% shooting accuracy from the three point range. Considering Sixer summer coach Billy Lange was shopping for long range artillery in the summer league, he had plenty to say about his Turkish player:

"“Well, why not if he’s 3 for 6? That’s 50 percent. That would make him one of the best. So should we not rely on 50 percent from three? The numbers would say I’m doing a poor job. I’ve got to get him more of them.”"

That’s the plan, Stan.  And in case you need a visual reminder, here is some Furkan Aldemir on video:

Aldemir did deliver as expected on defense. He led the summer league with 13.3 rebounds a game(RPG). While that is summer league, it’s a nice back-up to Noel’s 8.1 RPG. Aldemir is slated to slide in for minutes when Noel is not on the floor, particularly if the rumors prove true to the Sixer intent to move Carl Landry. Aldemir is not a finished product, even from his own admission:

"“I know what I have on my defensive side, but I’m not strong enough for the offensive side [in the post],” he said. “So I have to improve my basketball skills. So the most important part is my shot if I’m a power forward.”"

A defensive player who is working on his offense? If he succeeds, the team will as well. If he doesn’t? Sam Hinkie rolled the dice with little risk. However, there’s more where that came from as well.

Next: NBA First