3-and-D wings are one of the more sought-after commodities in today’s NBA, and Philadelphia 76ers forward Robert Covington is a solid one. The Sixers are interested in extending the 26-year-old’s contract, reports Michael Kaskey-Blomain of 97.3 ESPN FM:
The #sixers are interested in signing F Robert Covington to an extension this offseason, per source.
— Michael K-B (@therealmikekb) May 14, 2017
On the season, Covington averaged 12.9 points to go with career-best averages in rebounds per game (6.5) and steals per game (1.9).
Covington struggled from an efficiency standpoint, which is becoming a common theme for him. He failed to eclipse 40 percent shooting for the third consecutive year (though his mark this season of 39.9 percent is up from the past two seasons. His perimeter shooting took a dive; he shot a career-low 33.3 percent from deep.
Even in a down year, outside shooting-wise, Covington is a threat from three-point range, which has value in itself. He also shines on the defensive end. 6-foot-9 and long, Covington has the size to guard either forward position.
Furthermore, his quick feet and good hands enable him to intermittently defend guards.
The 76ers won just 28 games this year, but have amassed an impressive collection of young talent. Covington is a win-now sort of player on a rebuilding team. Depending on health and free agency, the Sixers could reach the playoffs soon. Extending Covington’s contract would be a sign that the Sixers are ready to stop tanking and move on to the next part of their trusted process.
