With the season kicking off this week, the Sixers are looking to bounce back from their putrid campaign last season. After drafting VJ Edgecombe third overall in June, it was not known how much of an impact he would have his rookie year.
After an impressive offseason, the Sixers’ coaching staff has made a clear bet on the rookie from Baylor signaling they believe his two-way instincts and playmaking accelerate the team back into contention.
Edgecombe played three games in the preseason averaging 16.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. He shot almost 43% from the field, 25% from beyond the arc, and was perfect from the line. He ended the final tune up game with 26 points, six rebounds, five steals, against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
His fit next to Tyrese Maxey looks very complimentary, allowing Maxey to play off the ball to take advantage of his shooting and speed running around screens. The coaching staff really wanted to see if Edgecombe could run the offense, and his ability to drive and improved playmaking has the team trusting him to be one of the main ballhandlers.
Head coach Nick Nurse and his staff have indicated that Edgecombe is “on track” to open the season in the starting lineup. He will slot into the starting lineup next to Maxey, Embiid, George, and either Oubre Jr. or Barlow. With a new offense focused on ball movement and driving, he fits perfectly next to players who have the ability to space the floor around him.
There will also be an emphasis on getting the transition offense going, making it a staple of the team. Edgecombe will fit well next to all of the young athletes on the team as they run the fastbreak after missing and turnovers. The rookie will fit well with the likes of Maxey, Grimes, and McCain running the break.
Philadelphia’s 24-win season last year created urgency to find answers this year with a veteran team with three all-star max contract players. The decision to thrust a rookie into a starting role naturally raises questions about pressure. Will there be pressure on him to be the savior of a team that has championship aspirations?
The coaching staff is framing Edgecombe’s role as an opportunity that he has seized more than a burden but expectations will remain. He will have to translate his preseason promise into consistent NBA minutes while fitting into a roster still managing injuries and veterans
The bottom line is the Sixers’ staff has handed the rookie both a vote of confidence but a heavy responsibility to start, defend, facilitate and help remake a struggling roster. His offseason playmaking flashes and defensive activity give reason for optimism, but the true test will be sustaining that production when the regular season’s intensity and stake rise. Thus far, he has shown he is up for the challenge.
