Robert Covington Is A Good Addition For Philadelphia 76ers
By Greg Sacidor
@Greg_Sacidor
Getty Images
Although Robert Covington may appear to be just another name on the always changing Philadelphia 76ers roster, the 6-foot-9 forward will prove to be a welcomed addition.
As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Development League Draft, the writing was on the wall early that Covington would be called up to the NBA sooner rather than later. Only a few weeks into the 2014-15 season, the 76ers made Covington the fifth Gatorade call-up of the season.
As a fixture in the NBA’s Development League for most of the 2013-14 season, Covington took every advantage of the opportunity he was given. In 42 games for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, which included 41 starts, Covington worked to develop every aspect of his game. As a result, he would finish the season averaging 23 points, nine rebounds, two assists, 2.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. He would also shoot 37 percent from three-point range. These statistics led Covington to being named the 2014 NBA D-League Rookie of the Year, NBA D-League First-Team and Most Valuable Player of the NBA D-League All-Star Game.
Covington will likely make his debut Monday night when the 76ers visit the defending NBA Champions, the San Antonio Spurs. On a roster that lacks depth at the small forward position, Covington is sure to see a good dose of playing time. Although Covington will add depth for the 76ers, he will bring much more to the table than just that.
On the season, the winless 76ers struggle shooting from three-point range. As a 37 percent three-point shooter last season, Covington will be able to stretch the floor for guards like Michael Carter-Williams and Tony Wroten. Covington will also add a defensive presence that Philadelphia desperately needs. If paired with rookie sensation K.J. McDaniels, the duo will bring the 76ers a young, defensive duo to build around.
So although he appears to be just another player in for a glorified NBA tryout with Philadelphia, Covington will prove to be a valuable addition for the 76ers. With minutes at his disposal, Covington will be able to take advantage of this opportunity, just like he took advantage of his D-League opportunity last season.
Greg Sacidor is a Philadelphia 76ers and NBA writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @Greg_Sacidor or add him to your network on Google.
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