After four seasons with the Miami Heat, Josh Richardson is aiming to make a splash in his first season as a 76er.
Brett Brown said Wednesday during his annual media luncheon with reporters that Richardson could be his team’s “secret mortar.”
Here are some of the reasons why:
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Brown anticipates Richardson guarding the opposing team’s primary ball handler, a job Richardson has prepared for well in his first four NBA seasons.
But Brown isn't the only person singing Richardson’s praises. Upon Richardson’s arrival in Philadelphia, Elton Brand shared his high hopes for the Oklahoma native as well.
“[Josh is] one of the best two-way players in the NBA with his spacing ability, with his defense, with his creation,” Brand said. “[I’m] proud to have him.”
Known for his defensive quickness and tenacity, Richardson has emerged as a perennial All-Defense candidate.
The 6-foot-6 Richardson boasts a 6-foot-10 wingspan, a significant asset for the already lengthy 76er squad.
On the offensive end, 2018-19 was a breakout year for Richardson, who averaged career-highs in points (16.6), 3-pointers made (2.2), free throw percentage (86.1%), and assists (4.1 apg).
Richardson will add wing depth to the group, especially considering his aptitude for catch-and-shoot opportunities (he averaged 39.3% on such shots last season).
As for his connectivity among the Sixers' star-studded group, Richardson goes way back with one of his new teammates.
“Tobias was actually leaving Tennessee when I got there,” Richardson recalls of his time at the duo’s shared alma mater. “I’m excited to play with him, compete with him every day in practice, and keep making ourselves better.”
Harris remembers that time fondly too.
“Seeing [Josh] in the gym, how hungry he was... he was always in there working,” Harris said. “He’s done a terrific job from the first day I’ve seen him set foot on campus.”
Harris added that he considers Richardson one of the most underrated players in the NBA.
High praise from one Volunteer to another, who will finally share the court together in just a matter of days.