Over the past few weeks, there have been a lot of rumblings about the Philadelphia 76ers making some moves, and the one name that has come up is Tobias Harris.
The 30-year-old, who is entering the final year of his contract, will make $37..6 million next season; that contract and his skillset make him desirable to some teams around the league.
According to reports, the 76ers were talking to a few teams that have an interest in the 12-year veteran. Also, there have been reports that the 76ers were looking to keep Harris, so who knows what to believe at this point.
Last season, Harris had another solid season as he averaged 14.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per contest.
On Tuesday night, Harris addressed his situation at a charity event. According to Harris, few players in the NBA can do the things he can do on a basketball court.
“Casual 76ers fans, they’ll trade me for a Crumbl Cookie,” he said. “They have to realize you’re not getting a 6’9″ forward back who can damn near shoot 40% from three, guard teams’ best player, post-up, drive and play 70-plus games a year.”
Harris’ father/agent Torrel Harris, recently told Bloomberg’s Business of Sports podcast that he doesn’t like how the 76ers utilize Harris.
Take away the max contract(five years, $180 million); fans would genuinely appreciate what Harris brings to the table. He is everything he says he is. He can score, has versatility, defend, and shoots the three-ball at a decent level(37% last season). However, the money is the money, and Harris has not lived up to that contract, but that’s not his fault. In his defense, he is the fourth option on this team, which will impact his numbers.
Philly can win with Harris; however, they have not gotten out of the second round, so until that happens, he will be one of the players that get blamed. The 76ers might look like the same team next year, but that depends on what happens with James Harden. If he returns, the 76ers will look the same and be a contender in the East. However, again, until they get out the second round, Philly fans will continue to throw darts at Harris.
Philadelphia do have a new coach in Nick Nurse, so if they keep Harris, maybe he can find a way to better utilize his talents.
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