Dec 22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Robert Covington (33) shoots while being fouled by Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) during the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Robert Covington
Shooting Guard Robert Covington – “RoCo” – is earning his start next season, one game at a time. Injured at the start of the 2015-2016 NBA season, his mid November return gave the Sixers a needed boost. Averaging 12.5 points per game so far, RoCo also brings a presence on the defensive side as well. His 2.1 steals per game leads the team, and his 6.0 rebounds per game are third on the team behind Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafor. His Achilles heel? 3.0 turnovers per game, coupled with shooting from the floor at 37.7%. For a player who will wind up and take his shots at the basket, a 40% or better average would be ideal. In the 2016 world, Covington will get looks at easier shots, and his resolve at being one of the senior players on the team, 26 years next year, will place him in a role of responsibility with the younger players. Don’t underestimate the power of this man.
Sixers Veteran
He’s the heir apparent to statesman of the Sixers. At the ripe old age of 26 next season, he could very well be the oldest gentleman on the team. His path to the NBA is a testimony to what the Philadelphia 76ers have been doing. His initial NBA experience was with the Houston Rockets as an undrafted but talented player from Tennessee State. He was recalled to the NBA, but played a majority of his time with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He was signed by the Philadelphia 76ers on November 15, 2014 and debuted for the team on November 17 against the San Antonio Spurs. In 17 minutes he had 6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Days later he popped 25 points in a 108-101 victory over the Detroit Pistons. In the 2016 roster, you can project Covington to see 26 minutes playing time, 41% shooting from the floor, 6 rebounds per game, 2.5 steals per game, 2 assists and 1.7 turnovers per game, 1 block per game and score 15 points per game. His will be a key role as the lynchpin, keeping the team together as they mature and develop.
Next: Jahlil Okafor