Philadelphia 76ers Thanksgiving: One thing to be thankful for with every player

Wilson Chandler — His two-way presence

Following the Jimmy Butler trade, Wilson Chandler has quietly provided significant value in the starting lineup. He’s something the Sixers lacked last season — a versatile defender who can space the floor and attack off the dribble.

Now free of his minutes restriction, Chandler will continue to start and finish games. He’s a proven spot-up shooter, but it’s his slashing ability that the Sixers were missing against Boston in the playoffs. He can collapse the defense with dribble penetration.

Chandler is also a sturdy defender, boasting a strong frame at 6-foot-8. His ability to defend 2-3 positions, along with Butler and Simmons, will prove extremely important against upper-echelon teams in the East. Again, that’s something the Sixers were short on against Boston.

He won’t get the hype other members of the starting five receive, but Chandler should get respect. He’s a long-time starter who has admirably filled the void left by Dario Saric. Expect his success to continue as his rhythm improves.