Let's forget about James Harden and free agency problems, 76ers fans. Instead, see who might earn regular season minutes this summer league.
NBA fans rejoice. Because with Summer League officially underway, basketball is back. For fans, it's their first chance to see their team's latest addition play in an NBA setting. For players, it's an opportunity to showcase their skills and shake the nerves. For coaches, it's about assessing talent and finding what works.
Breakout players and NBA Summer League go hand-in-hand. Summer League games are a breeding ground for talent. This summer, specifically, the Philadelphia 76ers have three players showing signs of potential.
In fact, if these three players maintain this pace, they might just break into the regular season rotation.
76ers Summer League sleepers: 3. Terquavion Smith
The 76ers didn't have a pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. They had no choice but to sign someone who didn't get drafted. However, I don't think anybody in the organization is upset they landed on Terquavion Smith. The athletic combo guard out of North Carolina State has sleeper written all over him and has been lighting it up this Summer League.
In a loss to the Grizzlies on Monday, Smith had 18 points and 3 assists. He has the holy trinity in his athleticism, shooting and defense. In fact, according to Philadelphia sports reporter Kyle Neubeck, Smith is emerging as an early favorite for, "Summer League player fans want in the rotation."
How on Earth did nobody draft this guy?
76ers Summer League sleepers: 2. Jaden Springer
Having a 41.5′ max vertical helps. Especially for 6-foot-4 Jaden Springer, as it allows him to play big. The former 28th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft is averaging 14.5 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists during Salt Lake City Summer League play. In a win over the Jazz last night, Jaden Springer had 18 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds.
Being the former 2023 G-League Finals MVP and a third-year guy in the Summer League, Springer may not seem like a sleeper to some people. However, putting all the pieces together is what Springer really has to focus on this time around. Springer's already put together some insane defensive highlights this Summer League and still has the potential to be a dangerous two-way player if he dials in the mechanics on his catch-and-shoot jumper. Assuming that gets squared away, come the regular season, don't be surprised to see Springer in that rotation.
76ers Summer League sleepers: 1. Ricky Council IV
At 6-foot-5, Ricky Council IV is already a bigger guard, and his 6-foot-9 wingspan only does him more favors. In the 76ers' recent win over the Jazz at the Salt Lake City Classic, Council IV tallied 14 points, five assists, three blocks, and a steal. He also displayed elite athleticism:
Council wasn't selected in the 2023 NBA Draft. However, he quickly signed a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. While he struggles shooting from outside, Council's on-ball defense is solid. The real test will be if he can perfect his touch from beyond the arc. If the 76ers can fix his jump shot, it'll be a tough night for whoever matches up with Ricky Council IV.
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