While the COVID-19 outbreak in the NBA is a serious and concerning matter, Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers admits there is one silver lining to the whole situation.
The NBA has found itself in a troubling predicament over the last few weeks because of COVID-19. Health and safety protocols have left a majority of the league’s rosters decimated. Games are once again getting postponed at a drastic rate, and those that do play consist of thin rosters.
Another stoppage is the last thing the league office wants, and they are doing all they can to avoid that scenario. Recently, a new rule was put in place to allow teams to sign more players to 10-day contracts via the hardship exemption. It is a quick fix that should allow them to stay afloat while they work the way back to full health.
Obviously, no team wants to be in a situation like this. These players might provide extra bodies, but it is still a disadvantage. That being said, some good can come from these unfortunate circumstances. Before the Sixers’ matchup with the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday, Doc Rivers gave his silver lining on the matter.
“This is serious business for these guys. This is their shot to get back in the league, to show people that they can play. It’s going to be interesting when this is all over, how many of these 10-day end up latching on and staying with teams,” Rivers shared.
The Sixers coach certainly makes a valid point with this thought process. It would not be surprising if a few weeks from now, teams decide to hold onto guys after seeing how they performed in their brief return to action.
Sometimes, all a player needs is a chance to showcase their skills. The window might be small, but this new rule has opened the door of opportunity for a large handful of guys eyeing a spot on an NBA roster.
There are a plethora of guys who have spent years trying to make their way back to the NBA that now have their chance. One of the biggest examples is Isaiah Thomas, who is currently on a 10-day with the Los Angeles Lakers. Injuries derailed Thomas’ career at its peak, but now the two-time All-Star finds himself back in the league.
Another player who has a lot to gain with their opportunity is Tyler Johnson, whom the Sixers recently signed. The 29-year-old was on a roster as early as last season and could now potentially find himself a new home.
Depending on how he plays in the coming week, the Sixers might even entertain the idea of keeping him on throughout the year.
Tyler Johnson sinks his first bucket as a Sixer! pic.twitter.com/kgvzFlQPLY
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) December 24, 2021
Over the years, there have been countless examples of playing bursting on the scene after being overlooked for years. These mass signings are giving young players their first taste of the NBA and older ones a final chance to keep the book open on their career.
Teams are always eyeing ways to improve in the margins. Contending front offices are likely keeping tabs on newly-signed players.
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