Sixers: Pros and cons of re-signing Dwight Howard

CON to Sixers re-signing Dwight Howard: Stifling the development of Paul Reed

The “Bball Paul” moniker has become a bit of a meme amongst Sixers fans, but Paul Reed showed some serious flashes last season. Reed won G-League MVP in addition to G-League Rookie of the Year before being called up to the Sixers.

In college, Reed had shown some ability to play quality defense with a bit of a wonky offensive style. This was on full display during Reed victory cigar minutes during the season:

Reed is versatile enough to not just be relegated to the small-ball five role, but it’s probably his best spot for now. Backup stretch four minutes can be another possibility, yet that goes back to Howard being suboptimal in terms of fit for that.

With Reed being a possible trade chip, no one knows if he’ll end up here for the duration of his contract. That being said, it’s clear that Daryl Morey does value him from the draft (plus the conversion of his two-way contract so quickly).

The backup four and five spots being open provide a chance for Reed to grow his game in a significant way. With Howard still on the team for 2021, only the stretch four would be a real possibility.