Point Guard Battle: Will The Barber Get Cut?
With Jerryd Bayless out due to injury but getting the nod to start when he returns, the Philadelphia 76ers have done little to fix the chaos of the 2015-2016 point guard situation. While the team has added new prospects, the entire preseason has taken on the feel of “tryouts” once more, with no clear player pulling away as the starter. That being said, there is quality enough on the team to hope one will emerge in the last game against the Miami Heat. The only problem is that the season starts very soon.
Cat Barber
Anthony “Cat” Barber is an undrafted free agent signing for the Philadelphia 76ers. A 6’3″ point guard who has lightning speed, termed “fastest guy in the league” in an agents’ compilation by Sports Illustrated’s Seth Davis.
Strengths
Despite being undrafted, Cat Barber had plenty of clout coming into the draft. In two games, he has the ability to score. While running point for North Carolina State, he averaged 23.5 points per game.
Weaknesses
Arriving to the NBA as an undrafted prospect is a handicap. Arriving to the NBA both undrafted and injured is a huge mountain to climb. I’m not certain even Barber can manage it. With his sore wrist, even after coming back, he has been a little off on his shooting. The team has second year T.J. McConnell coming back to the NBA off a good rookie season, and the team has brought in Sergio Rodriguez to fill highlight reels with circus-like passes. So far, Barber merely has his youth and potential as his strongest calling card for the roster.
Probability Of Making Team
I love this kid and he would have made last season’s roster. But this year? I gauge his chances at 25 percent of making this team. I do see the team steering him to the D-League Delaware 87ers this season and competing for a roster spot again next year at 75 percent.
T.J. McConnell
T.J. McConnell is the returning veteran to point guard, the only returning veteran to the position. While some dislike his play, he is a scrappy in-your-face defender whose play warrants a spot on an NBA roster.
Strengths
T.J. McConnell is a strong defensive point guard, and his understanding of the game is better than most give him credit for. While not as quick or flashy as other options at the position, he is a work horse who can shoot when needed, defend well, and can run the team’s offense.
Weaknesses
McConnell is not flash, will not lead the team in scoring, is not considered much of an offensive threat when he has the ball, and is still improving. The Philadelphia 76ers need a finished product at point guard today, and he simply is not it yet.
Probability Of Making Team
I like McConnell’s attitude, and I think head coach Brett Brown does too. He has a 75 percent of making the roster. The other 25 percent is the chance of dealing him just before the season starts for 2017 draft picks to a team in need of point guard depth.