In just seven short months, Mike Scott has become a Philadelphia hero both on the court and in the community.
The veteran wing has made playoff appearances in six of his seven NBA seasons, and is expected to make his trademark toughness a key piece of the 76ers’ 2019-20 run.
Here are some of the reasons why…
What to Watch For
During the playoffs, Tobias Harris called Scott “one of the best shooters in the NBA.”
We all remember the moment that sparked Harris’ comment, as Scott drained a corner three that would be the winner in Game 4 of the Sixers' opening-round series against the Brooklyn Nets.
The shot would give the Sixers a 3-1 series lead.
“As soon as that ball left his hands, I knew it was good,” Harris said.
But for Scott, it’s not just about the big moments.
“Diving on the floor and getting your hands dirty. I have always been that kind of player,” Scott said earlier this week at Media Day. “I just feel like I’m a blue-collar role player for this team and I’ve always been.”
Looking ahead, Scott joined many of his teammates in adding a defensive focus to his offseason training.
“I just want to go out there and compete, and do whatever it takes to try to stop my man,” Scott said.
Scott was nothing if not consistent last season, which he split with the LA Clippers and Sixers.
Though his minutes went up considerably after joining the Sixers (Scott averaged 14.4 mpg with LA and 24.0 mpg in Philadelphia), he shot 40.0% from the field with both teams.
Scott’s accuracy only improved in the playoffs, where he shot 44.7% from the floor.
Scott also shot a career-high from deep after becoming a Sixer. His 41.2% from long range made him the most efficient volume 3-point shooter on the team - a valuable skill Scott brings to the 2019-20 lineup.
Off the Court
True to form, Scott made many appearances (some planned, some impromptu) around Philadelphia this summer, including serving sweet treats to unsuspecting fans.
Scott also threw out the first pitch at the Phillies game earlier this month.
Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikescottva and Twitter: @mikescott