What can DeAndre Jordan offer the Sixers?

Just under a week ago, the Sixers acquired former Lakers center DeAndre Jordan off the buyout market, much to the chagrin of Sixers Twitter.

The big man made his debut for his new team against the Bulls Monday night, earning a solid 10 minutes of playing time in Coach Doc Rivers’ rotation and racking up two points, two assists, three rebounds, a steal, and a block.

The former All Star and three-time All-NBA member was brought in to replace Willie Cauley-Stein, who was in turn signed as a replacement for Andre Drummond, who was part of the blockbuster James Harden trade. Jordan has dipped in production this year, especially since his days in “Lob City,” but the Sixers seemingly hoped Jordan could be a suitable backup to their franchise big man Joel Embiid.

What can DeAndre Jordan provide the Sixers off the bench?

Replacing Drummond is no easy task. The Sixers have both Charles Bassey and Paul Reed on the bench at center, and they also acquired Paul Millsap at the deadline; these players, however, have simply not picked up the workload Drummond took on. He averaged nearly nine rebounds off the bench and played well defensively. Drummond was arguably the best backup to Embiid since Embiid entered the league.

Still, though he may not post Drummond-like numbers, Jordan may have a lot to offer. If his first game in the Spectrum jerseys was any indication, he can still go on the defensive end. Sure, he looked slow and out of place at times, but he also had flashes where he looked great, including the block on Derrick Jones Jr. He also had two assists for 3s off offensive rebounds. His pick-and-roll game gave Harden some space, and with more time to gel with his teammates, that combination can improve.

Rivers has a history with Jordan, as does Harden. With little time left in the season, previous chemistry is a huge bonus when bringing in new players. Jordan has plenty of playoff experience and can mentor the young frontcourt players. Bassey and Reed should take big steps under him.

Realistically, Jordan won’t do much on the offensive end. His role must be to rebound and defend. Drummond was invaluable because he was able to protect the paint and rebound when Embiid needed a rest, a task no one before him could do. If Jordan can keep the Sixers afloat while Embiid goes to the bench, which he proved is possible Monday night, that should be more than enough.

With all that said, will it be enough? Who knows? The bottom line: Jordan looks much better than he did with the Lakers and even the Nets in just one game, and, if he can keep up that pace while figuring out his role in the minutes he plays, he can be a valuable asset for the Sixers down the stretch.