Are Labaron Philon Jr.'s Preseason Struggles Worth Stressing Over?

Even though it’s still the preseason, it’s still an adjustment period for some of the Philadelphia 76ers' newest additions. It's okay to have some struggling moments, but it seems one player is struggling a little more than the others. 

The 22nd draft pick for the 76ers, Labaron Philon Jr, is having a rough time in his first two preseason games. Over the two games played, Philon has averaged 23 minutes, six points and three assists per game. He’s currently shooting 4-17 from the field, which is a horrific 23 percent. Again, this is only preseason, but if Philon wants to be a contributor on this team, he has to play better. 

The big thing about the young rookie that drew the 76ers to him was his scoring ability. It’s a different ballgame once a player gets to the league, but it's a bit alarming to see him struggling the way he is. 

It just seems that nothing is falling. He’s trying to create shots far too often instead of taking what the defense is giving him. So far it’s been a bunch of forced shots, and he's just trying to outdribble his opponents in hopes of getting a look at a shot.  What makes the problem even more alarming is that this isn’t against the starters; it comes against the second unit. This is the unit he would most likely face in any game depending on the situation.  But, if the shooting struggles continue, the regular season may see very little of Philon.

Some of his playmaking showed up, but it’s not enough for the team to give him minutes. Truthfully, this could be a situation where Philon ends up in the G-League. Now that’s not a problem; actually, going to the G-League could benefit him and help him continue to grow. The only problem is that there's one less ballhandler on the team. 

Besides James and Tyrese Maxey, there’s no one that can really bring the ball up the court. It’s just one other thing that could limit the 76ers from exploring their full potential. It’s just another weight for the starters to carry. This team is built to withstand whatever comes their way, but if the hits keep coming, then it’s only a matter of time before it starts to crack.

If Philon can’t get right, they’ll have to rely on someone like Jameer Nelson Jr to follow in his father's steps and assume the point guard mantle.