Philadelphia 76ers: Who is the team’s third-best player?

Josh Richardson

Acquired by the Philadelphia 76ers in the sign and trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Miami Heat, Josh Richardson is a capable shooter and shot-creator in addition to being an elite perimeter defender. The problem is he is the model for inconsistency.

Despite playing for a new coach and tasked with learning a new system for the first time in his career, as well as no longer being a primary scoring option since joining the Sixers, Richardson has remained an impactful player and steady force on defense.

Given his role within his new team’s offense, it is no surprise Richardson’s numbers have taken a dip this season. His averages of 13.8 points, 3.1 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game are all respectable but less than what fans have grown to expect of him. Never known for his efficiency, his percentages are down across the board as well, posting .429/.327/.789 shooting splits through 48 games.

Richardson has also shown an ability to run an offense to create for others. Playing the point guard position for a career-high 15 percent of his minutes on the court while enjoying a +3.3  Plus/Minus Per 100 Possessions (on the court).

Listed at 6’6″ tall with a 6’10” wingspan, Richardson uses his wiry frame and athleticism to defend multiple positions out on the perimeter, making outside shots tough for opposing players. The Oklahoma native is holding opponents to 44.9 percent from the field and 35.4 percent from three-point land while averaging 1.6 steals plus blocks per game. That’s his lowest mark since his rookie year but still serviceable.

If Richardson can improve on his shot selection and consistently put the ball in the hoop, he would be just as much of a nightmare on offense for opposing teams, that he is on defense. As of now, the 26-year-old Richardson has the potential to be an excellent two-way player, but he’s not quite good enough at the moment to be the third option on this Sixers team.