It was only a few months ago that the Sixers wrapped up one of the most disappointing seasons in recent memory. Expectations were sky-high heading into the year — coming off Joel Embiid’s best season yet, signing Paul George to a massive contract, and looking ready to compete in a top-heavy Eastern Conference. But in just a few months, all that optimism unraveled, leaving the Sixers with 58 losses and nothing to show for their efforts but a trip to the draft lottery.
Fortunately, the ping pong balls
bounced in their favor. The Sixers, who were at serious risk of losing the pick entirely, locked into the third spot in the draft and quickly zeroed in on Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe. Now, the crown jewel of a lost season is set to make an immediate impact. A third overall pick is no small investment, but what can Sixers fans expect from Edgecombe in year one? Where will he thrive, and what areas might he struggle in?
As a top-three pick, Edgecombe arrives with skills polished enough to translate from day one, even as other parts of his game continue to develop. His biggest strengths should shine on the defensive end, where he has said on record that he takes the most pride.
Edgecombe is the real deal defensively. He anticipates well, avoids unnecessary gambles, and already has a strong physical frame despite just turning 20. Much has been made about the Sixers’ crowded backcourt —especially with restricted free agent Quentin Grimes in the mix — but Edgecombe brings a different defensive brand than any of the other guards. He plays vertically, contests shots at a high level, and even averaged nearly a block per game at Baylor. At just 6-foot-5, his ability to protect the rim from the guard spot is something Sixers fans haven’t seen in a long time.
Whether paired with Tyrese Maxey or Jared McCain, his defensive skillset will be a breath of fresh air. In time, as he adds strength and size, he should even be able to hold his own against small forwards.
On the offensive side, things are more of a mystery. Since James Harden’s departure, the Sixers have been searching for a big ball-handler, and Edgecombe has the tools to grow into that role — whether this year or down the line. During Summer League, the team featured him heavily on the ball. His camp reportedly wanted him to land in a situation where he could handle more playmaking duties, and with how quickly the Sixers locked onto him in the draft process, it’s safe to assume both sides see eye-to-eye on that vision.
Still, it would be a lot to ask Edgecombe to run the offense as a rookie. To start, he’ll likely play more off-ball, possibly coming off the bench. As the season goes on, though, don’t be surprised if he gets more opportunities to initiate as he proves himself.
Shooting and pace will be the main areas to watch. Edgecombe’s jumper has good mechanics but needs refinement, especially on the move or off the dribble. If he can hit tough shots with the ball in his hands, his ceiling rises dramatically. That’s why it makes sense for the Sixers to ease him into things, letting him contribute right away as a catch-and-shoot threat while his offensive game develops.
Then there’s his athleticism, which jumps off the page. Edgecombe has a lightning-quick first step and can get to the rim in a hurry. The next step for him will be mastering pace changes. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander elevated his game from All-Star to MVP by perfecting this skill, and while Edgecombe isn’t there yet, the ability to shift speeds could open up improving his entire offensive arsenal over time.
So how will the Sixers manage their backcourt rotation? For now, let’s assume Grimes returns as a restricted free agent. Maxey is locked in as the starter, with McCain, Grimes and Edgecombe competing for the spot next to him. Grimes probably has the early edge thanks to his experience and defensive ability, especially if the Sixers commit to him with a sizable contract. If he instead takes the qualifying offer, though — the only real leverage his camp has — the Sixers may push him to the side since he wouldn’t be part of their long-term plans. McCain could make things interesting with his scoring punch and floor spacing, though pairing him with Maxey raises defensive concerns. That would leave Edgecombe starting the year as more of a bench contributor while he gets his feet under him.
But make no mistake — the future of this team runs through Maxey and Edgecombe. It may take weeks or months, but there’s a very real chance Edgecombe plays his way into the starting five this season. With his defensive impact, athleticism, and developing offensive game, the Sixers have every reason to believe he’ll become a core piece moving forward.
