2. Jonah Bolden
Through three games, Bolden has probably been the third-best big man on the Summer Sixers’ roster, trailing both McCullough and Oliver. You could even argue that Norvel Pelle has been more consistently impactful, albeit in a smaller role with fewer minutes.
Bolden just hasn’t looked good, disappointing many fans in the process. After going 36th in last year’s draft, the Australian is expected to join the Sixers next season. Prior to July, many believed he could be Embiid’s primary backup.
Putting significant stock into Summer League play is unwise, but Bolden doesn’t look ready for that level of responsibility yet. His offensive game appears raw and his defense has been less impressive than it was in the same event a year ago.
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Bolden did show some positive flashes in the third game, knocking down a three-point shot and scoring 10 points. His versatility is still a valuable trait in the modern NBA, on both sides of the ball.
He can hit spot-up jumpers and attack closeouts off the bounce, using long strides to get to the rim and finish. He can also grab-and-go in transition, boasting smooth handles for a 6-foot-10 big. In theory, he’d be the ideal modern reserve behind Embiid and Dario Saric.
And, there’s a good chance that Bolden still reaches that level at some point. You can’t take Summer League struggles at face value, especially when he has been notably better in the past. The upside is still there with Bolden, even if his play this summer has been underwhelming.