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Can Patrick Beverley’s disruptive nature help the 76ers?

By Leocciano Callao

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 20: Patrick Beverley #21 of the Chicago Bulls reacts during the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on March 20, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 20: Patrick Beverley #21 of the Chicago Bulls reacts during the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on March 20, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /
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Call him a journeyman, an irritant, and whatever you want to call him. Patrick Beverley will always be the hardest-working player on any roster he is part of. He is someone who would fight much bigger players to protect his teammates. A diamond in the rough that applies pressure on both ends–especially on defense. You hate to play against him due to his aggressive, in-your-face playstyle, but you’d love to have him on your side. If you doubt his ability to make teams better, just ask the Minnesota Timberwolves.

There has been plenty of movement in the NBA since free agency started last week. After a short stint with his hometown Chicago Bulls, Beverley is once again on the move. The 11-year vet is heading to the City of Brotherly Love to join the Philadelphia 76ers.

On an episode of the Pat Bev Podcast, Beverley revealed that Doc Rivers played a role in determining his next destination. Rivers, who coached Beverley during his tenure with the LA Clippers, convinced the three-time all-defensive team member that Philly was the place to be, despite his recent firing as the team’s head coach.

Beverley also revealed that Boston and Washington were on the table, but the conversation with Rivers was enough to bring him to Philadelphia. “I wanna be in Philly,” Beverley said. “I wanna feel the city, smell the city, [and] have it on my shoulders. I wanna hear the fans when we win a big game.”

Why this deal is a win-win for Beverley and the 76ers

Assuming that James Harden stays put, he and Beverley are very familiar with each other. The two were teammates in Houston, where Harden praised Beverley for his fervorous play on the court. Whether they play side-by-side or Beverley becomes a secondary floor general, he will be a big plus for Philly’s backcourt.

Another factor is Joel Embiid is coming off an MVP season. There is no doubting his talent. However, Beverley’s unapologetic presence in the court and locker room could perhaps help push Embiid further.

Philadelphia is easily one of the best teams in the league. Unfortunately, they find themselves stuck in the mud yearly in the post-season. Embiid has a massive chip on his shoulder, and Berveley has had one his whole career. Beverley is far from an all-star point guard whose talent can get you places. However, he is a personification of grit and hard work. His outspokenness is something that the 76ers could use if they finally want to break through the barrier.

Next. Miami’s high-stakes pursuit of Damian Lillard is at risk of backfiring. dark

His scrappy nature could unveil some real potential in Philadelphia as they continue to trust the process. Beverley is clearly excited about this new venture–how it plays out is something to look forward to in October.