Hollis Thompson bright spot for struggling Sixers

Thompson is averaging over 10 points per game in April. Credit: Getty Images

Lost in the debris of a 17-61 season has been the steady improvement of Hollis Thompson.

In fact, Thompson may have stamped his place on the 76ers’ roster for next season.

Time will tell, but Thompson has been one of their most improved players, especially over the past 10 games.

Thompson knocked down six 3-pointers on his way to a career-high 18 points in a recent loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Through 68 games, Thompson is 64-for-157 – 40.8 percent from beyond the arc.

Any NBA team would surely want a player on its roster with these types of numbers.

“When I’m on the court competing, I’m not thinking about shooting threes,” Thompson said. “I’m out there playing and trying to do whatever I can to help the Sixers win. If the situation presents itself, then I’ll shoot them. The coaches tell us if we’re open to shoot the ball. I feel like I’m taking good shots and I’m feeling more comfortable.”

Thompson signed as a free agent with the Sixers after going undrafted in 2012. Following one season in the NBA Development League, Thompson earned a spot on the Sixers. And he’s determined to keep it.

If he keeps hitting 3-pointers at this pace, it will hard for the Sixers not to retain him.

“I feel like I just need to play hard, do what the coaches need and things will take care of themselves,” Thompson said. “I don’t really think about next year or beyond because I need to stay focused. That’s the most important thing right now. If I do that, then good things will hopefully happen. I’ve had a great experience here with the players and coaches. I hope it continues.”

Thompson’s work ethic will always continue. He’s usually the first player to arrive at practice and games at the Wells Fargo Center.

“I was the last guy to make the roster as an undrafted free agent,” Thompson said. “It’s about hard work. That got me here. I feel like extra work will always pay off. That’s how you improve, how you get better. I thrive on hard work.”