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JB Bickerstaff Praises VJ Edgecombe as Sixers’ Rookie Faces Bigger Role

Detroit’s coach highlights the No. 3 pick’s athleticism during a stretch of heavy injuries for Philadelphia.

Overview

  • Before Thursday’s game, Pistons coach JB Bickerstaff called Edgecombe “a stud,” praising his athleticism, competitiveness, fearlessness and ability to create his own shot.
  • Edgecombe is averaging 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists while shooting 42.4% from the field and 35.3% from three in his rookie season.
  • Detroit beat Philadelphia 131-109 on Thursday and limited Edgecombe to 10 points on 3-for-14 shooting by sending extra bodies at his drives.
  • The 76ers are managing significant absences, including Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Paul George (25-game suspension) and Kelly Oubre Jr., and have slipped to 35-31 and the East’s No. 9 seed.
  • Coach Nick Nurse said the team needs Edgecombe to score and initiate more offense as rotations change, shifting him from play finisher to primary creator.