The 2024-25 NBA Regular Season will start in 10 days and the Philadelphia 76ers had an active offseason this summer. As a result, the Sixers were able to create a very deep and athletic roster heading into this season.
In years past, the second unit has been one of the biggest weaknesses for Philly when it comes to roster construction. However, on paper, the Philadelphia 76ers now have one of the strongest second units in the association. One player who will get a chance to get rotational minutes and could be a big X-factor for them will be Guerschon Yabusele.
Philadelphia 76ers X-Factor: Guerschon Yabusele
Become A Consistent Scorer
The Sixers signed Yabusele late in the summer after his explosive performance for France’s Men’s Basketball Team during the Paris Olympics during the summer. In Philly, he will have the chance to become a key role player off the bench. Earlier this week he scored 15 points during his preseason debut against the New Zealand Breakers. Being able to score the ball is a quality that the Sixers value from their bench players. Continuing to score points like he did against the Breakers will be a significant factor in helping him obtain more minutes this season.
Also, Yabusele will need to continue to improve his scoring ability, in order to become Philly’s starting power forward later this season. Throughout the Olympics, Yabusele was a key role player for France. His athleticism impressed many people during the summer. Additionally, Yabusele showed an ability to hit three-pointers and score all over the floor. The Sixers will have one of the best second units in the association if he can continue to improve as a scorer.
Become a Three-Point Sniper
During the offseason, the Sixers prioritized finding players who can consistently hit three-pointers. In addition, Yabusele made some pivotal three-pointers for France during the semifinals against the United States this summer. He will need to take full advantage of the high-percentage shooting opportunities that Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George create for their teammates.
When he last played in the NBA five years ago with the Boston Celtics, he made 32.1 percent of his three-pointers. However, throughout his international career, Yabusele was a 40.6 percent shooter from beyond the arc. Expect his percentage to be closer to his international numbers, especially with the plethora of wide-open three-pointers Philly’s offensive scheme creates. Yabusele should be able to separate himself and improve his spot in the rotation, by becoming a three-point sniper off the bench for the 76ers.
Improve As a Defender
The Sixers have a serious need for wing defenders and during the offseason, they were able to sign players who are defensive specialists. Yabusele will have a real opportunity to improve his minutes if he can become a dependable defender for Philly.
Yabusele will become a better defender being coached by Nick Nurse who is known for his defensive schemes. Additionally, his athleticism should separate him from the other players in the second unit and give him a huge advantage. Learning to balance his athleticism with trusting his skillset will be a huge development for him. Yabuselse has the potential to be a coveted 3-and-D role player.
Philly has created a very well-balanced roster with plenty of opportunities for role players to become key contributors. Ultimately, Yabusele has shown he is a player who can rise to the occasion and become an X-factor for Philly off the bench.
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