Philadelphia 76ers: A 2019 Christmas present for every player

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(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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Gifts to those who don’t inhabit the regular rotation…

Marial Shayok — A full contract

Despite a few hiccups, Marial Shayok has proven himself to be a bonafide scorer in the G-League. At 6-foot-5, his perimeter scoring chops — most notably his willingness and ability to shoot on the move — should interest the Sixers, who need help in that department. He’s a real piece.

Norvel Pelle — A full contract

Even better equipped for a full contract than Shayok, Norvel Pelle has already shown flashes in the NBA this season. He has more minutes under his belt than Zhaire Smith and Jonah Bolden, and his skill set has a place in Philadelphia. He’s a high-flying rim-runner and an imposing shot-blocker.

Jonah Bolden — A trade

For Jonah Bolden, a trade is mutually beneficial. He’s a genuinely decent prospect — a long, mobile big who can defend the perimeter, block shots, and hit spot-up threes. Where he falls short is consistency and decision-making. He needs a young team with minutes readily available. The Sixers seem more interested in Pelle at this point.

Shake Milton — Tighter handles

The clearest path to minutes for Shake Milton is operating in a point guard role — or at least operating as a reliable halfcourt playmaker. While Milton has more than enough feel and vision as a passer, his stiff handles and relative lack of shake (pun always intended) limits his ceiling.

Zhaire Smith — An offensive facelift

If Zhaire Smith was a serviceable offensive player, he would get NBA minutes right away. He’s a one-percent athlete and a tantalizing perimeter defender, possessing the lateral quickness and length to effectively bottle up lead guards and wings. Now, his priorities are clear. Hit more threes, add a passable handle, and become more comfortable as a wing at NBA speed.

Kyle O’Quinn — Quicker feet

Despite preseason expectations, Kyle O’Quinn has made little impact on the Sixers so far. He’s shuffled behind Joel Embiid and Al Horford in the rotation — even the aforementioned Pelle has gotten more run recently. The reason is defense. O’Quinn is slow-footed in space, something his nifty passes and spot-up threes can’t offset.