Philadelphia 76ers: Why not just keep Jerryd Bayless?

With his contract expiring next year, the veteran point guard could provide some valuable wisdom to the young Philadelphia 76ers this year, so hey, why not just keep him?

Jerryd Bayless played bad last year. But that’s probably not something I need to tell you. He sucked, lost his starting job, lost his backup role, and fell completely out of the rotation. But again, you already know that. And I don’t even want to mention the fact that he is currently the player that everyone wants to see traded, because obviously that is apparent.

So the idea of keeping such a player would be crazy, right? Seemingly no one would be happy if he stayed and seemingly he wouldn’t help the team at all. Right? The fact is though, there is a reason he hasn’t packed his bags yet and, like it or not, he might be here to stay this season

Bayless’s value

Jerryd Bayless is a class act. That is something no one can deny. Throughout the season it was well documented that his play on the court was bad. Despite all of this, Bayless never complained to the media. As his role diminished with the team, Bayless never let his ego get in the way, which is something that doesn’t always happen with veterans in this league.

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In the entirety of last season not one player criticized Jerryd Bayless in any way to the media. And not one time was he involved in any negative story with the team. He’s a likable guy within the team, and those type of veterans don’t often get traded away for nothing.

In addition, Bayless’s work ethic never let up even when his role with the team went away. What wasn’t documented that much throughout the season is that often times Jerryd Bayless was one of the first people at shootarounds and in the gym. Not being in the lineup didn’t stop him from working on and bettering his game.

Not only did this show his love for the game, but it also presented a great example for the younger Philadelphia 76ers players to follow. Now by no means is Bayless the ultimate role model for every NBA player to follow, but to say he provides nothing for the team isn’t true.

Trust the front office

The Sixers organization isn’t stupid. If Bayless was such a load and negatively affecting the team, he would be gone. Yeah, $9 million a year for veteran presence is a lot of money, but it really isn’t that crazy.

If they trade away Bayless the Sixers will most likely have to give up some sort of pick and expect to receive very little in return. Why go through all of this effort to get rid of a guy that everyone seems to like?

What he can provide for the team in experience and love for the game is worth way more than anything that they can get for him in a trade. And I know that sounds corny (and this is going to all look stupid when they trade him tomorrow or something), but it is really the truth of the situation.

So instead of directing all your hate onto our resident scapegoat Jerryd Bayless, lets accept him and all he can do to help. Because chances are, he’s going be here for a least another year.