Wroten sees opportunity with Sixers

Point guard Tony Wroten is impressing early in Sixers camp and challenging for starting point guard spot.

For a rebuilding team like the Sixers, sometimes it takes a simple change in mindset to turn things around.

That’s why new GM Sam Hinkie and Co. have decided to bring in certain players, ones who have been around winning, like point guard Tony Wroten.

Wroten averaged 2.6 points and 1.2 assists last season for the Memphis Grizzlies, who lost in the Western Conference finals to the San Antonio Spurs. He was part of a crowded Memphis backcourt featuring Mike Conley, Tony Allen and Jerryd Bayless.

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“Obviously, you want to play and I see that opportunity here in Philly,” said Wroten. “I had great vets last season which helped me grow like Tony Allen, Zach Randolph and Mike Conley. Being around a winning team, I can teach these guys so much because I know what it takes to get to that level.”

The Sixers are expected to have a rough season. Critics project them to finish as one of the five worst teams in the league. Point guards are the quarterbacks of the NBA, so a good one can lead a losing franchise out of the darkness.

Most expect first-rounder Michael Carter-Williams to firmly hold that position, but don’t sleep on Wroten.

“Everybody wants the chance to start,” said Wroten. “I’ve known Mike since high school and we’re both 6-foot-6. Training camp is going to be a fun competition between us. I loved my opportunity in Memphis, but coming here I have the opportunity to play a lot of minutes.”