Philadelphia 76ers Season In Review: Frontcourt
By Simon Smith
Dario Saric, PF
Year: Rookie
2016-17: 81 GP, 26.3 MPG, 12.8 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 41.1 FG%, 31.1 3P%, 78.2 FT%
Both Saric’s gradual improvement and his durability were notable attributes in his rookie campaign. Playing in 81 games, Saric’s only absence was in the final game of the regular season. He started somewhat inauspiciously, averaging just 9.8 points on 38.1 percent shooting over his first 28 games of the season.
But gradually, as Saric gained experience and the Sixers lost players through either injury or trade, his confidence soared. Over his last 30 games of the season, Saric posted 17.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 30.0 minutes per game. Despite the increase in playing time and responsibility, Saric was able to maintain a high level of performance, an extremely impressive feat for a rookie.
Saric’s best performance in his debut season came during a road victory against the Chicago Bulls. Playing 34 minutes, Saric notched 32 points on 12-of-19 from field along with 10 rebounds, two assists and steal.
Moving forward, Saric is going to need to familiarize himself with playing alongside Embiid. He started alongside Embiid on just seven occasions, which were in the first 10 games of the season, at a time when Saric was still adjusting to life in the NBA.