Philadelphia 76ers: 3 bold predictions for 2019-20 NBA season

3. Josh Richardson to record at least 200 triples, 100 steals and 70 blocks

Considering his career trajectory, these statistical achievements are certainly realistic.

Last season, his fourth in the league, Josh Richardson posted a career-high 164 triples, having recorded 53, 75 and 127 over his first three seasons. With J.J. Redick and his 8.0 attempts per game now gone, a large void has been left behind as it pertains to 3-point proficiency.

Of the remaining players on the Philadelphia 76ers’ roster, Tobias Harris’ 5.0 attempts per game was the highest. At 6.4 attempts per game last year while converting at a 35.7 percent clip, Richardson certainly has the opportunity and talent to continue his upsurge.

While his offensive game expanded each season, it’s at the defensive end in which Richardson should provide the most value for the Sixers.

For the third straight season, Richardson averaged more than one steal per game, while he also finished 24th overall in the league with 185 total deflections.

Furthermore, and for the second straight season, Richardson received voting consideration for one of the two NBA All-Defensive teams.

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Per Basketball Reference, just two players in league history have recorded at least 200 triples, 100 steals and 70 blocks in a season. One was Paul Pierce in 2001-02, the other was former Sixer Robert Covington in the 2017-18 season.

Given his athletic makeup, while also possessing a 6’10” wingspan, it’s reasonable to assume that Richardson will assume a similar-type role to the one Covington assumed under head coach Brett Brown.

With the combination of an elite point guard in Ben Simmons, and the attention garnered from his teammates, achieving the above stat line for the season is certainly achievable for Richardson.