The Philadelphia 76ers were lucky in the 2021 NBA Draft when Jaden Springer fell into their lap when they selected him at the 28th spot in the first round. However, Springer has been a wildcard of the Sixers’ future.
After the Blue v White game that the Sixers hosted at their field house in Delaware, Sixers head coach Doc Rivers commented about Springer and his future.
Doc Rivers on Jaden Springer: "Just trying to find a position where he can fit in. I think here [The Sixers NBA G-League facility] will be big for him... I think [Sixers G-League coach] Coby [Karl] is gonna be great for Jaden and all the young guys as well."
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) October 9, 2021
Based on the quote via Keith Pompey of The Inquirer, Rivers is basically saying that Springer is so raw that it’s unclear what he can be in the NBA. Based on the evidence presented thus far, it’s fair to write that Rivers is on the right path with his statement.
The Philadelphia 76ers need to figure out Springer’s position moving forward.
Springer is a 19-year-old guard who stands at 6-foot-4. In college, he averaged 12.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 2.4 turnovers, while shooting 46.7 percent from the field and 43.5 percent from the 3-point line.
He did struggle a little bit in the NBA Summer League. He averaged 11.2 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.8 turnovers. It was his shooting where he really struggled as he shot 37.9 percent from the floor and 13.3 percent from deep.
It’s clear that he’s not ready for NBA minutes and Rivers had indicated that he will be spending time with the Delaware Blue Coats this season. Springer is a part of the future, but for now he has to develop in the present.
Springer is a raw talent and could develop into either guard position, but the Philadelphia 76ers need to take time to develop that talent. Having him develop in the G-League is the best choice for the 19-year-old.