Tobias Harris has often been a point of contention for most Philadelphia 76ers fans. Some love his leadership, his rebounding, and his shot creation. Others can’t get past his massive $180 million contract. Both views are valid.
However, now that Tobias is in the final year of his contract, Philadelphia fans have been able to see him in a different light this season. It also helps that Tobias is having his best career year for the Sixers.
A reborn Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris has been playing like a man renewed this season. Whether it’s Nick Nurse’s scheme, James Harden’s departure, or the fact that he’s in his contract year, Tobias is averaging 19.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. He’s shooting a career-high 54.7% from the field, and while his three-point percentage is below average thus far, he has been one of the key players during Philadelphia’s hot start to the year.
Beyond just season stats, Tobias Harris has put together multiple standout performances this year. 29 points against the Hawks. 24 on Detroit and Portland. Harris has scored 20+ points 7 times this season while being one of the most consistent rebounders on the team.
Harris has also been a key secondary playmaker and one of the best attackers on the fast break in transition. Consistently, Tobias has been playing bully ball on every drive, often powering through his defenders for easy buckets.
One last hoorah?
Tobias Harris may not be the third All-Star that the Sixers have been looking for over Joel Embiid’s career, but he may just be the perfect third star for Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. At the very least, he could be the best third option for Philadelphia this year.
Next year, anything could happen. Tobias’s contract is done after this year, and with the Sixers’ cap space plan coming to fruition this offseason, who knows what’s in store? That being said, as of right now, Tobias has had an incredible year and will continue to improve as the season goes on.
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