Sixers: 5 takeaways from first third of 2020-21 season

Sixers takeaway #2: The real Tobias has arrived

When the Sixers signed Tobias Harris to a five-year, $180 million extension, the logic was simple: he’s one of the most efficient shooters in basketball, and a decent shot-creator in the halfcourt. That logic was ultimately flawed, but even so, very few expected such a poor effort from Harris last season. He shot only 36.7 percent from 3, looked out of place offensively, and no-showed in the postseason.

This season has been a different story entirely. While Harris’ contract is still an albatross, he no longer looks out of place. He no longer looks like the undisputed worst contract in basketball. Instead, he looks like a real third fiddle who can contribute in a significant way when the pressure mounts.

Harris’ game-winner against LA a couple weeks ago epitomizes his improvement. He made a decisive move to take advantage of a mismatch in his favor. In doing so, he gave Philadelphia the win and assumed the mantle of ‘closer’ that seemed out of reach 2019-20.

He is far from perfect, but Harris has approached the game anew this season. He’s making quick, well-calculated decisions. He’s moving the ball or driving strong to the rim. He’s embracing contact, rather than settling for fall-away jump shots. He’s letting 3s fly with confidence. He’s hanging tantalizingly close to the 50/40/90 club, which is rarified air. There are too many positives to note.

Rather than a painful negative, Harris has turned into an undeniable bright spot. In this writer’s opinion, a deserving All-Star. Whether you credit Doc Rivers or Harris himself, the 28-year-old has a clearer understanding of his role and skill set than he ever did under Brett Brown. This is the player Philadelphia signed to a $180 million contract, even if that number was never smart.