Over the next few weeks, we'll evaluate the Sixers' roster after the 10-72 season.
Up next is Hollis Thompson.
Position: Guard
Status: Team option for 2016-17 at $1,015,696.
Signature game
There were more than enough choices for Thompson, particularly down the stretch when the Sixers' banged-up frontline forced the team to hoist up one three-pointer after another. For example, he scored in double figures in 12 of 15 games during March.
However, we'll opt for the Sixers' Jan. 20 win over the Orlando Magic. Thompson scored 17 points in the 96-87 victory on 7 of 10 shooting, including 3 of 5 from three-point range. Thompson also added three boards in the game.
Thompson in 2015-16
Thompson proved to be a valuable member for the Sixers again this past season. Although it will never be a true focus, Thompson was a serviceable defender. And while his shooting numbers did take a small dip, he was still the team's best long-range shooter.
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Thompson's field goal percentage (41.3 to 39.7) and three-point percentage (40.1 to 38.0) each dropped this season, but he still averaged career highs in both points (9.8) and rebounds (3.5) per game.
Perhaps more important than any statistical category, Thompson was simply available. For a team with injury issues throughout the season, Thompson was a constant with 77 appearances for head coach Brett Brown and 17 starts.
Prospectus
The only player to suit up for Brown during each of the first three years of the Sixers' rebuild, Thompson has been a steady performer. While his overall numbers will likely never wow anyone, every team needs solid players that you can count on.
The Sixers plan on turning a page in the rebuilding process in 2016-17, but with a minimal salary cap number and the ability to consistently hit a jump shot, Thompson should be around to finish out his rookie contract.
On Hollis Thompson
"I'm not backpedaling [from the gypsy] comments at all. But when I see players like Nik Stauskas and Jahlil Okafor add to Hollis (Thompson) and (Robert) Covington, we're slowly starting to grow some things. And not only are we starting to grow some things, I think we're starting to see some pieces of the puzzle come together where you have some legitimate perimeter shooters to complement a Jahlil and Joel (Embiid)." - Brown
