The Philadelphia 76ers are rightfully continuing to rack up losses to end the regular season. With their playoff chances already officially dead, they are only playing for ping-pong balls at this point, and so far, they are doing a good job of pushing their luck with the draft lottery getting closer with each passing week.
As of the moment, the 76ers are more interested in hosting this quasi-audition of theirs to see who among those still playing are worthy of remaining on the roster for next season. The results have been mixed so far as can be gleaned from their barrage of losses, but there has also been some silver linings.
One bright spot as of late is Jared Butler, whom the 76ers acquired before the trade deadline from the Wizards for Reggie Jackson and whose deal was subsequently converted into a standard NBA contract early in February.
Jared Butler’s upward trend will be key for the 76ers next season
In 20 appearances for the team thus far, Butler has posted 10.3 points and 4.7 assists on 42.4 percent shooting from the field, including a 34.5 percent success rate from three-point territory in 22.9 minutes of gameplay on the average.
Butler’s shooting splits could be a lot better, but recently, he has been an efficient operator from the perimeter, shooting 52 percent from rainbow country in his last five games. It has been pretty apparent that Butler often suffers from not having shooters around him, prompting defenses to give him more attention.
The 76ers snagged Butler in hopes of getting a boost in the playmaking department — that he clearly possesses already. However, being a factor as a floor-spacer could arguably be even more important if he wants to be a part of the regular rotation next season.
Between Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and hopefully, Quentin Grimes as well, the 76ers have three very capable shot-creators who thrive in attacking space. Philly needs someone who can organize the team in their stead and alongside them, and if he keeps his performance up, Butler could very well clinch that role for himself.
The Philadelphia 76ers have no means to bring in a flashy name in the backcourt, nor do they need to do so in the first place. Thus, having Jared Butler continue his upward trend next season will be instrumental to the team touting a more well-rounded backcourt in the following campaign.