Philadelphia 76ers Injury Hardship Exception Alex Poythress Impressing Fans
By Bret Stuter
Strategic or Random misfortunes have sent the Philadelphia 76ers to pursue the Injury Hardship Exception to Sign Power Forward Alex Poythress. So far, Poythress’s Play has been impressive
The Philadelphia 76ers have been decimated with late season injuries. And so, the front office is trying to close out the season by patching roster holes. The latest effort was signing former Kentucky power forward Alex Poythress to help the Philadelphia 76ers close out the season.
Armed with injury hardship exception, Sixers signing ex-Kentucky forward Alex Poythress. Story: https://t.co/X9yJ6L7Jnm
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2017
As a late season arrival, Poythress does not have the benefit of experience in the NBA. As a matter of face, he hasn’t had time to establish repertoire with the Philadelphia 76ers players either. And so, the upside expectation could realistically be no greater than “hold it together” mode.
Gorelick’s Analysis
Russell Gorelick did an admirable analysis of Alex Poythress upon news of the signing, Gorelick pointed out immediate that Poythress’ game is in the paint, citing his 30.2 percent three-point shooting accuracy. On one hand, his assessment proved prophetic, as Poythress has managed a mere 12.5 percent shot from the perimeter in three games.
On the other hand, Poythress is living up to other elements of that analysis as well. After all, Poythress has significant upside potential. As a matter of fact, he is closing out the season with the Philadelphia 76ers, it will be the 76ers who have the yay or nay on retaining his services through the summer league and training camp for next season.
More from The Sixer Sense
- 3 Sixers players who could help Team USA Basketball
- 76ers 2k24 ratings: 3 most underrated players on Philadelphia roster
- 76ers head coach Nick Nurse bares lofty plans for Paul Reed this season
- Grade the Trade: 76ers swap Tobias Harris for superstar PG in mock deal
- Sixers Podcast: Danny Green returns + James Harden bombshell
Make Way For 2017 NBA Draft
The complication facing Alex Poythress’ future with the Philadelphia 76ers next season is the number of picks the team has in the 2017 NBA Draft. With as many as two first round picks and four second round picks, the team will have plenty of options. Use, trade up, trade to next year, or draft and stash are all in play.
But for Alex Poythress, the number of second round picks risks more competition for limited roster spots. And so, his debut for the Philadelphia 76ers is really dress rehearsal for any NBA team who may notice his play.
Next: Philadelphia 76ers: How to Approach the 2nd Round
For now, the Philadelphia 76ers have been pleasantly surprised with the play of Poythress in a short-term, point blank arrival to the team. As he fights to earn a spot on the roster, he is earning something perhaps even more important.
Respect.