Philadelphia 76ers: 3 goals for Landry Shamet’s rookie season
By Derek Hryn
3. Take advantage of versatility
The 76ers now have an overload of exciting guards on the roster, leaving each of them competing for minutes this season.
While the team awaits an estimated Christmas time return of guard/wing Zhaire Smith this year, they’re going to need to make up for the versatility he provides in the backcourt.
Shamet is currently a player on head coach Brett Brown’s radar who has more skill on the floor than many would think. Brown has reportedly raved about his defensive upside even more than his shooting prowess on offense. That being said, it may be necessary for Brown to supplement more time than originally expected for Shamet.
The Wichita St. product stands at 6-5 with a Steph Curry-esque frame. His length mixed with quickness defensively could present a problem against opposing guards.
Shamet could likely play anywhere from the point to the wing this season, if Brown were to give him the opportunity.
The Boston Celtics started that trend in just the past two seasons with players like Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown, due to their massive depth in the backcourt.
No matter the position or experience, the Sixers need to find unique ways to keep the most talent on the floor at a time, and Shamet needs to be given a chance to prove that he can immediately spark the team.