PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe has been outstanding in the first 36 games of his career. He averaged 15.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game, shooting 42.9% from the field and 38.2% from three-point range.
When late-season incentives come into play, Edgecombe will certainly be a candidate for Rookie of the Year, as he’s been one of the best rookies in the league all season long. Most importantly, he’s playing for a championship-hungry team.
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Typically, when a player is drafted as high as Edgecomb, that player is often considered the cornerstone of the franchise and leads its resurgence. That’s not the case with the 76ers, which may require a lot of rookies to deal with.
Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson paid tribute to Edgecomb for everything he has done on the court so far.
“Really impressed,” Atkinson said Friday before the Cavaliers beat the 76ers. “Poised – what did my son tell me? He said he looks like a young Anthony Edwards. Like, his body. I think that’s been there before, but yeah. His size, the way he moves, it’s all important. And then, obviously, not being afraid to take the big shot, so (the Sixers) found themselves there.”
Edgecombe has gone through the usual ups and downs of a rookie, but for the most part, he’s been consistent and looks to help the Sixers compete when the playoffs come around. He has all the skills needed to succeed and the mental makeup to make it happen for him. It will be interesting to see his career path as time goes on.
This article originally appeared on 76ers Wired: Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson pays tribute to 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe
