PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers forward Robert Covington had a limited role over a quick stretch of games before making an impact in Monday’s blowout win over the Washington Wizards.
Covington played four first-half minutes in a Dec. 6 win over the Wizards and was a did not play coach’s decision against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday. The lack of time was a bit surprising considering how well he has been playing on the defensive end all season and the impact he has off the bench.
One has to wonder if that bothers the veteran out of Tennessee State, but Covington is no stranger to these situations. He went through something similar with the Los Angeles Clippers.
“I just went through a whole year to — no,” he scoffed at the notion of it being tough for him. “No. Not at all. We’re a deep team, so no it does not.”
Coach Nick Nurse has made it clear he is still figuring out the rotation for this group. He is looking for the right mix of players to ensure success on a nightly basis. This is a veteran group that understands how that works.
“It’s the way that he’s still figuring it out line up, Covington added. “So you know, whatever happens, I’ll go and just stay ready. That’s a prime example.”
In Monday’s win, Covington had eight points with four rebounds and a couple of deflections. He did what he is asked to do and it’s another example of his professionalism. He stayed ready and helped the Sixers run away from the Wizards early.
“Listen, you gotta be prepared,” Covington finished. “You gotta be a pro. Every time you step on a court and your name’s called, you gotta be prepared. That’s it at the end of the day. I went through the stuff that I went through LA, everybody asked the same questions. ‘How do I stay ready?’ It’s a mental thing.”
The Sixers next face the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday on the road.
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