Who Should Mentor the Young Sixers Core?

There’s been some speculation about the Sixers shopping around NBA vets on the team, like Kelly Oubre Jr and Andre Drummond. What needs to be understood is that the NBA is a business, and decisions have to be made that benefit the team. However, that’s not the point of this post. So forget, for a second, about the potential trades for Oubre and Drummond, and focus on the kind of impact these vets can have on the future core of the franchise.

First things first, Drummond should be the one to mentor Adem Bona. It helps that Bona plays a similar game to Drummond during his Detroit Pistons days. Bona has already shown his shot-blocking prowess, tenacity in securing rebounds, and paint-scoring production. What Drummond can teach Bona is the timing in grabbing rebounds and procuring steals in games. After all, why not the big who’s top 10 in all-time steals amongst centers?

Next on the list is Oubre mentoring Justin Edwards. It would be the same scenario as before, as both players have a similar game when it comes to their smooth inside scoring skills, rebounding ability, and quick hands for steals. In fact, Oubre can teach the young forward when to pick-pocket the opposing player. For those who might question this, look back to December 30th of 2024. The Sixers traveled to Portland, Oregon, to face off with the Trail Blazers. Oubre amassed a career-high eight steals in the 125-103 win against Portland. 

Next up, Paul George should be the one to mentor VJ Edgecombe. Edgecombe is such a raw prospect with a lot to prove. He has an all-around skillset in passing, scoring, and defending. Having a vet in PG13 can be extremely helpful in developing the rookie to be a problem for future opponents. George is already an established defender with four all-defensive team nominations tied to his resume. With that in mind, Edgecombe could become the next PG13, albeit shorter, as his skills have been shown in his Summer League games. 

Finally, Joel Embiid should be the one to mentor Johni Broome. Having the 2023 MVP mentor the second-round rookie would benefit Broome, as his game could mimic Embiid’s. Broome has a post-game, where he favors the fadeaway, and tracking the ball for rebounding. Mainly, in my opinion, Embiid should help Broome’s offensive game, as Broome has had major problems with his efficiency.  

Jared McCain isn’t really mentioned, as he and Tyrese Maxey already have an established mentor. The 2019 NBA Champion, Kyle Lowry, has been in both players' ears. His guidance has helped Maxey become a vocal leader and made McCain more confident during his rookie campaign. So, like they say, don’t fix what isn’t broken, and continue having Lowry mentor the young guards. It’s difficult to have this many veterans on a team that can positively impact a young player's development. The Sixers’ young core may very well trend upwards to become a scary lineup in the future.