VJ Edgecombe Gives 76ers Something Their Superstars Can’t Supply

With the Philadelphia 76ers looking for a bounce-back victory, there seems to be one player that could help them out with that. 

No, it’s not Joel Embiid, although he is going to be a huge reason why, but it’s VJ Edgecombe. Edgecombe is the only player who has yet to crack 20 points, but that’s not where the team needs his presence. His defense proves that he’s another two-player the 76ers can’t be without. 

Along with Embiid, Edgecombe missed the game against the Detroit Pistons, and that could be another reason for the 76ers' first loss of the season.  He’s already improved his defensive ranking from 116.4 to 100.7, and that’s part of why the 76ers are ranked fifth on defense. The other influence could be the additions of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown.

Brown may be the biggest influence between the two, as they have built a bond since Brown arrived in Philadelphia. Edgecombe has taken on some of the most formidable offensive players, like James Harden and, at times, Josh Hart.  It’s not just his defense that makes him key to what this team needs; it’s also his hustle. 

There have been countless times in the early part of this season where Edgecombe has kept a play alive by his hustle or how he gets down court with Tyrese Maxey in an effort to maximize their chances at getting a fastbreak basket. Those are the kind of players you can’t replace. Now, the only thing truly missing is his offense. It’s not to say that he isn’t contributing offensively because he scores when the opportunity presents itself; it’s just not as consistent. 

While some of that is certainly due to all the stars on the team, some of it is because there’s no offensive identity. It’s not something Edgecombe can control, but what he can do is make himself available in every way possible. One action that was missed by his absence was his ability to know when and how to cut to the basket. It’s those little things that add to his value on this team. 

Everybody wants to be a leader and doesn’t know how to be one; Edgecombe doesn’t have that problem. He was part of the reason Maxey was able to finish the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers when he pulled away from the action to keep his head calm. Edgecombe has been a leader since his rookie campaign. For a second year to have that much bravado, and it translates to such a positive look for the team, speaks volumes.

If Edgecombe remains healthy, he is the dark horse this team will need later on in the season.