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Sixers mailbag: TLC’s future, an Embiid contingency plan, and more

Christopher Kline|
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 08: Markelle Fultz #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers stands on the court during a 2017 Summer League game against the Golden State Warriors at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 8, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Philadelphia won 95-93. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 08: Markelle Fultz #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers stands on the court during a 2017 Summer League game against the Golden State Warriors at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 8, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Philadelphia won 95-93. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
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NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 23: Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot shakes hands with Commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted 24th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 23, 2016 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 23: Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot shakes hands with Commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted 24th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 23, 2016 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)

How long does TLC have to show growth

I’m not sure the question of leeway is the right way to look at Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot’s situation.

TLC already showed tremendous growth last season, with excellent feel off the ball and smart plays in multiple different sets, which allowed him to flow seamlessly through Brett Brown’s offensive scheme. While his 3-point shot is still a work in progress, his mechanics are fine — and we should see growth in that department relatively soon.

He’s also a plus defender, with long arms and the ability to compete with NBA athletes one through three. As his frame continues to get stronger, that defensive prowess is only going to improve.

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In a league that is predicated on two-way versatility, players like TLC who can swap positions on the wing while playing both sides of the ball are inherently value. He’s not an initiator, but Luwawu already makes smart secondary passes within the offense, while his slashing and transition work is already among the best on the roster.

He’s already set to be the primary backup to J.J. Redick and Robert Covington off the bench, and that could very well be where his role is best suited long term. If Redick fades out later on — or signs elsewhere next offseason — TLC, with some improved shooting, could feasibly step in and take that starting spot.

There’s obviously some need for improvement, but acting as if TLC needs significant leeway at this point is overlooking just how far he came last season. He’s already a contributor — and figures to remain one for the foreseeable future.