Can Michael Carter-Williams avoid sophomore slump?

Michael Carter-Williams led all NBA rookies in most categories in 2013-14. Credit: Getty Images

In every sport, there’s always going to be rumblings of a sophomore slump after a player performs tremendously in his rookie season.

Can he do it again? Was it a fluke?

These are common questions many ask pertaining to the subject and they’re questions which many are asking right now for the Sixers 2014 Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams. He averaged 16.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.9 steals on his way to winning the prestigious award. But, he is coming off shoulder surgery and arguably has a worse supporting cast surrounding him this season.

His points may go up slightly, but with Hollis Thompson and Tony Wroten as the only other offensive threats to pass the ball to and with Nerlens Noel corralling rebounds, It’s unlikely that Carter-Williams can keep up the same output in those categories. It’s also unknown just how much the shoulder injury affects him. For an already bad shooter who scores most of his points at the rim, he may have some issues staying consistent offensively if his shoulder still causes him any trouble.

Carter-Williams is a good player, but it’s unrealistic to think he can top what he did in 2013-14 with the hand he’s been dealt this season.