Given the Philadelphia 76ers' long-standing battle with injuries, one would think that every roster spot would be vital in their bid to win a championship. The Sixers' front office clearly disagrees with this insight, as Kyle Lowry continues to chalk up more DNP's than Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliot misses extra points. Veteran presence in a locker room is essential, but was this really a wise move by the 76ers?
Not only does Lowry provide an air of camaraderie amongst his peers, but he also brings the experience of winning a championship with the Toronto Raptors under current 76ers head coach Nick Nurse. Undoubtedly, the former Raptors guard is someone that every franchise would be lucky to have around the building. However, whether he should boast a spot on Philadelphia's roster is another question.
Coach Kyle Lowry has a nice ring to it
Maybe I’m not an NBA executive, but it seems smarter to move a veteran who can’t perform nightly into a coaching role than let them occupy a roster spot that could go to someone contributing on the court. Instead, the Sixers' hierarchy signed Lowry to a one-year extension in the offseason -- reported to be worth approximately $3,634,153.
The salary cap is not important here, as realistically, this is a veteran-minimum contract that will have little effect on which players Philadelphia could, or could not, acquire. One fact that does matter is that the 76ers had an opportunity to uncover a gem, as they did with Dominick Barlow, with this roster spot.
Kyle Lowry has only featured in seven games for the franchise this season, with just one of those appearances coming in the Sixers' last 10 games. Over that time, the 39-year-old has averaged 1.7 points, 0.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, while shooting 30% from the floor. Additionally, Lowry did not make his season debut until November 2, in a 129-105 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.
What makes matters more concerning is the reality of the situation the Philadelphia 76ers now face. Both Tyrese Maxey (38.6 mpg) and VJ Edgecombe (35.4 mpg) are being heavily utilised in the rotation, increasing the likelihood of injury. If this unfortunate circumstance does fall on either one of these players, Lowry will be thrust into action with little evidence that he is in any condition for a push for a postseason place.
Kyle Lowry is clearly a much-loved presence in the locker room. The bonds he has created with players and the knowledge he has at his disposal are undeniable. However, if the Philadelphia 76ers are serious about ending their 43-year championship drought, they must make wiser decisions that are not coveted in nostalgia.