The Philadelphia 76ers probably did not envision having one of their two-way players eventually become a full-time starter for them, but here they are. Dominick Barlow, whom they somehow managed to scoop up with a two-way deal last offseason, has flourished enough to become their starting power forward this season.
Barlow, who is only in his fourth year as a professional, has not really gotten a consistent role in his first three seasons in the league, which he spent in San Antonio and Atlanta. But to be fair to his former clubs, his game has nott yet matured at that point where he can be relied on as a regular contributor.
The script, however, has flipped for him in Philly. While his makeup as a player remains largely the same, he has found a way to be impactful in a lot of areas on both ends of the floor. In fact, it is probably not a stretch to say that he has been a top-five player for the 76ers so far this season.
Dominick Barlow has been one of the best players for the 76ers this season
Averaging 9.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 26.6 minutes a night, Barlow’s counting stats seem pretty pedestrian. However, Barlow has expanded his game so much that his impact cannot be given justice by what the mere numbers tell.
Defensively, Barlow has become an all-important piece for the 76ers. A rangy and agile 6’9” forward, he has become particularly adept at covering as much ground as he can on defense with his lengthy frame. His mobility already gives him an elevated floor on that end, and to make the deal sweeter, he is able to guard multiple positions even on a single possession — something which this team has not had for quite some time now.
On offense, Barlow is able to make up for his relative lack of a three-point shot by being an active and aware cutter and an efficient finisher around the rim. He has always been one of the best post operators in the G-League, and while that has not translated completely into the NBA, he has funneled a lot of that into at least becoming a reliable last-ditch option inside the paint.
Even the advanced stats favor Barlow. Among all rotation regulars, he is fourth in defensive rating. He has the highest true shooting percentage among their rotation players. He rarely coughs the ball over. Put simply, he is an effective and efficient basketball player.
The 76ers know what they are getting from Barlow, and for a team in need of efficient complementary studs who are willing to do the little things, that is a very welcome sight.