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The Philadelphia 76ers will obviously go through a few changes between now and the beginning of next season after finishing 34-48 this year. If there is one player who needs to continue their play from last season into next year, it would be Thaddeus Young. Young finished the season leading the team in rebounds and steals per game. It is going to be because of players like Young that Philadelphia gets back into the playoff hunt sooner rather than later.
Young averaged 14.8 points a game this past season and shot over 53% from the field. Young obviously got a lot more playing time with Andrew Bynum being out, but I would believe that the team won’t be re-signing Bynum this offseason. Young should have the opportunity to start every game like he did in the 76 games he played this season. The team hasn’t had a much more consistent player than Young over the past five years as he has averaged between 12 and 15 points each season.
I would think a lot will also depend on who the next coach is with the 76ers. I don’t believe Young’s role will be reduced no matter who takes over. Young still have multiple years left on his contract so he will be in Philadelphia for quite a bit longer. I would assume that teams would love to trade for a player like Young with how good of a player he has turned into. Philadelphia should be very happy to have a player with the all-around game that Young has shown over his whole career.
Andy Schmidt is a columnist/writer for RantSports. Follow him on Twitter @ASchmidtSports, like his Facebook page or add him to your network on Google.
