USA Today via Reuters
Apr 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center Mason Plumlee (44) forward Kawhi Leonard (2) center Ivica Zubac (40) forward Nicolas Batum (33) guard Eric Gordon (10) and forward Paul George (13) watch game action against the Phoenix Suns during the second half in game four of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center Mason Plumlee (44) forward Kawhi Leonard (2) center Ivica Zubac (40) forward Nicolas Batum (33) guard Eric Gordon (10) and forward Paul George (13) watch game action against the Phoenix Suns during the second half in game four of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The Philadelphia 76ers have undergone some major changes over the past few months. One of the biggest changes happened to be the departure of James Harden. The 2018 MVP’s move to the Los Angeles Clippers allowed the 76ers to strengthen their bench. One of the players acquired in the deal was Nicolas Batum, who was in the news recently.
A few hours ago, reports revealed that the French international was away from the team for some personal reason ahead of their matchup against the Phoenix Suns. The 76ers fanbase has reason to rejoice as the Frenchman might make his official debut very soon.
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Positive update about Nicolas Batum surfaces
Despite joining the team a few days ago, Nicolas Batum has yet to feature on the court.Fans expected him to suit up against the Suns, but he was away from the team for some personal reasons and the coach was unaware of his return.
Hours after beating the Suns, NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that Batum has rejoined the team in Philadelphia. In fact, he will be available very soon when the 76ers take on the Washington Wizards.
New Sixers wing Nicolas Batum has returned to Philadelphia after dealing with a personal matter and is expected to be available to make his debut Monday against the Washington Wizards, league sources tell @NBAonTNT, @BleacherReport. pic.twitter.com/Zo0tSCGnf1
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) November 5, 2023
The 76ers take on the Wizards on Monday and will expect to see a healthy lineup featuring names like Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Batum alongside the other stars.
On the other hand, the Wizards will give them some good competition. After all, they have the dynamic duo of Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma at their disposal.
Both Poole and Kuzma have had decent starts to their season despite their team’s dismal 1-4 record. Poole averages 17.6 points while Kyle Kuzma averages 22.8 points in 5 games.
What does Batum bring to the 76ers?
The French star is a very experienced player having spent 15 seasons in the league. He has been around the league playing for teams like the Portland Trail Blazers, the Charlotte Hornets, and the Los Angeles Clippers.
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 15, 2021; Sacramento, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) high fives guard-forward Nicolas Batum (33) after a play against the Sacramento Kings during the third quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
He has redefined his plays as a role player over the years, especially during his time with the Clippers. He averaged 6.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists last season coming off the bench in most matches. Moreover, he also shot 42% from the field during the 2022-23 NBA season.
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What are your predictions for the Philadelphia 76ers? Let us know in the comments below.
Written by
Edited by
Debmallya Chakraborty