Sixers’ point guard depth chart: Jaden Springer — FOURTH STRING
Jaden Springer is probably more of an off-guard, at least at this stage of his career. Both he and Milton will show up on the shooting guard breakdown. That said, Springer is 6-foot-4 with some real passing chops, and could end up running the show for the Delaware Blue Coats.
He’s only 18 and needs to grow into his game, but Springer was a powerhouse defender at the college level. The reason Doc Rivers cited for not playing Maxey for stretches last season was the rookie’s poor defense. Springer should not have the same issue. He was a much better prospect than the No. 28 pick would suggest, and it’s not impossible for him to climb the depth chart as a rookie. But again, he makes more sense as a two-guard, and we are The Sixer Sense.
Sixers’ point guard depth chart: Grant Riller — FIFTH STRING
The Sixers signed Grant Riller to a two-way contract shortly after waiving Rayjon Tucker. It’s a sensible move, with Riller providing a much more valuable skill set to the Sixers’ burgeoning young core. He’s a shot-maker at heart, and not long ago stood among the best scorers in college basketball. His ability to fill it up at all three levels is quite unique on the Sixers’ roster.
That said, the 24-year-old Riller is on a two-way contract for a reason. He played 18 total minutes in Charlotte as a rookie, and was promptly allowed to sign elsewhere. He has a long way to go, even if his G-League production belies some real NBA upside. He won’t see the floor much in Philly, plain and simple.