There is a lot to be excited about if you are a Philadelphia 76ers fan, especially after landing VJ Edgecombe with the third overall pick in last month’s draft. But as much as the buzz is justified, there needs to be a bit of a reality check when it comes to what his rookie season might actually look like. With the current structure of the roster, it would be wise for fans to temper their expectations early.
Edgecombe is going to be a key part of the franchise’s future, that much is obvious. But when you take a closer look at the depth chart, it is clear that he will not be thrown into the fire right away.
Tyrese Maxey is obviously the biggest name in the backcourt, Jared McCain is coming off an impressive rookie season prior to his injury, and Quentin Grimes will look to continue to thrive after his post All-Star jump. That is before you even mention Paul George, who is likely to play a mixture of wing and guard depending on the matchup.
Edgecombe may be a bit buried in the depth chart
In other words, Edgecombe will have to earn every minute he gets, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. Letting a young player develop without the pressure of carrying an offense is often the smarter route. It gives him time to adjust to the speed of the game and learn where he fits within the system. It also helps avoid the situation where a rookie is prematurely labeled based on early production rather than long-term growth.
For what it is worth, Edgecombe has the physical tools. He plays with poise, attacks the basket with force, and is already a disruptive defender. But all of that needs time to sharpen. There are plenty of flashes, but like most 19-year-olds entering the NBA, he will need some refinement in decision-making and shooting consistency.
That is why the Sixers’ current setup may work out perfectly. He will get to be around veterans who know how to carry themselves, watch how George prepares, and lean on Maxey’s experience as well. It is not hard to imagine him starting to make a real leap in year two or three once the game slows down and he gets a better sense of where his strengths translate.
This is a long-term investment, and Edgecombe is going to be a long-term fixture in Philly. The excitement is valid, but patience is going to be key.