The Philadelphia 76ers have been looking for a constant backup big man to Joel Embiid throughout his career. They have run through different options. Some have helped; some have failed. It seems they have obtained a good one with their recent signing.
The Sixers brought in former two-time All-Star Andre Drummond on a veteran’s minimum deal in the offseason to replace future Hall of Famer Dwight Howard, who was effective behind Embiid in his one season but returned to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Drummond and Embiid have a volatile history that appeared to be a serious feud. However, it appears Embiid is happy to have Drummond back him up in Philadelphia.
“He’s a great guy,” Embiid started on Drummond. “Obviously, I always kicked his butt, and he knows it, too. That was always a fun match-up for me. That was one of those matchups that I just knew that I was going off, but it’s great to be on the same side.”
In Monday’s preseason win over the Brooklyn Nets, Drummond hopped off the bench and had 16 points, six rebounds and six assists as he showed off his effectiveness around the rim and on the glass. The six assists are also a welcome sight for the big man as Philadelphia’s offense was still able to flow correctly.
“He’s a smart basketball player,” Embiid continued. “He can see the basketball, he’s got great hands, athletic, can defend, run the floor, can score with either hand, plays with a lot of energy.”
The Sixers have always had an issue of keeping leads the starters built. Even with Howard around, the Sixers were blowing significant leads. Embiid believes having Drummond around will help in that regard.
“Over the years, we always had trouble of keeping leads whether it was with the starting 5 or when I was hopping off the floor,” Embiid said. “I think he’s gonna give us a chance to do better whether it is in the regular season or the playoffs. I have a lot of respect for him. I think he’s gonna be huge for us this year. I actually think as far as playing whether it’s me at the 4 and him at the 5, I think he can move well, and we can do some great things together.”
This post originally appeared on Sixers Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
[mm-video type=playlist id=01f09kz5ecxq9bp57b player_id=01f5k5xtr64thj7fw2 image=https://sixerswire.usatoday.com/wp-content/plugins/mm-video/images/playlist-icon.png]
[listicle id=51714]
[lawrence-related id=52139,52126,52133]