Philadelphia 76ers: Where Robert Covington ranks among all starting small forwards

12. Andrew Wiggins, Minnesota Timberwolves

Wiggins hasn’t lived up to his draft slot or his max contract yet. He’s undeniably talented, but inefficiency and poor shot selection have tanked his value in four NBA seasons. His shabby defense is even more concerning given the nature of his scouting report coming out of Kansas.

11. Robert Covington, Philadelphia 76ers

Covington made All-Defense first team last season, beating out several talented wings in the process. His versatility plays an underrated role in the Sixers’ success, allowing them to construct a top-five defense around Joel Embiid in the middle.

As one of the 10-15 best defenders in the NBA, Covington’s value is rooted on that side of the ball. That alone should keep him entrenched in the starting five, even if Markelle Fultz proves himself worthy of starting. Dario Saric or J.J. Redick would be better served in the second unit.

Much has been said about Covington’s offensive struggles over the past few seasons. He’s inconsistent, often following hot streaks with dreadful cold spells. Add in his inability to handle the basketball, and there are serious limitations to his game.

Even with his weaknesses, though, Covington brings value to the Sixers’ offense as someone who’s willing to launch from well beyond the NBA three-point line. He spaces the floor, and still has plenty of room to grow when it comes to attacking closeouts and finishing inside.

10. Joe Ingles, Utah Jazz

Ingles, like Covington, is perpetually underrated. He doesn’t put up huge numbers and is often viewed as the fifth fiddle in Utah, however incorrect that may be. What Ingles lacks in flash, he makes up for with knockdown shooting, playmaking chops and killer defense.