Philadelphia 76ers Will Be Just Fine Philadelphia
By Bret Stuter
Nov 21, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers head coach Brett Brown (left) talks with guard Hollis Thompson (right) during the second half against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Winging It
I covered the lack of solid play from the wings on this Sixers team, but since that article, the play has improved dramatically. Since the article, Hollis Thompson has averaged 11.7 points per game, has shot 41.5% from the three and shot better than 50% from the floor. In this period, he’s made 11 rebounds and had no turnovers. Zero. The Philadelphia 76ers knew coming into this season that they were vulnerable from long distance. The presence of Jahlil Okafor in the post necessitated that the Sixers try to stretch the floor. Thompson has answeed the call, shooting 39.5% from long range. Thompson leads by example.
"“Hollis Thompson is our version of a veteran. What a story. I feel like he’s a poster child to our program. He came out of left field, and kept investing time, and put in the work. And now he’s been here for a while. And he’s playing at a high level for us.” – Brett Brown discussing Hollis Thompson"
In fact, “veteran” play has shown quite a bit of value on these Sixers. At a time when the Sixers need long range accuracy, Thompson has given the team just that. Check out this three point arsenal from Thompson.
You can see Thompson command pinpoint accuracy when he gets in the groove. He is barely familiar with the roster of T.J. McConnell and Jahlil Okafor. As he becomes more acquainted with his teammates, his skills will become even more important and relied upon. Thompson is definitely making a strong case for his presence to be a Philadelphia 76er for years to come.
Next: Two's Company