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The Philadelphia 76ers haven't made any big splashes this offseason, but they've signed a few veteran guys that can help the young core along. The Sixers are still in rebuilding mode and will need a few years with this young core to get going, but with these acquisitions the process should be smoother. The Sixers acquired players that can help the plethora of big men they have, but also the young guards.
Elton Brand:
*Photo via USA Today
Elton Brand in his prime was an elite big man. During his tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers, Brand had several seasons where he averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds per game. In the 05-06 season, he averaged 24.7 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, so Brand knows a bit about being an elite big man in this league and the Sixers have a few that can potentially be elite. Ben Simmons, Jahlil Okafor, Joel Embiid, and even Dario Sario all have the chance to be elite in the NBA and they can learn a lot from Elton Brand. Brand was a great post player and a great mid range shooter, so he will be perfect for helping the young core develop their games. Brand won't see much time on the court, but will be a great help and mentor behind the scenes.
Jerryd Bayless and Gerald Henderson:
*Photo via USA Today
Henderson and Bayless clearly didn't sign with the Sixers to contend for a championship, but their roles would be greater here than on a championship team. Bayless and Henderson are two veteran guards that have had a solid long career in the NBA. These days longevity is key to a successful career and not too many guards have had long quality careers, Brandon Roy, Brandon Jennings, and Derrick Rose just to name a few. The Sixers have some talented guards in Nik Stauskas and Kendall Marshall and they can learn a few things from Bayless, who is a solid point guard with playoff experience. Bayless is still young and can actually guide the players, while setting up the big men.
These three veteran NBA players will have a greater impact than most people think and will help the Sixers progress ahead of schedule. The Sixers have an extremely bright future and these players will be a reason why.