Tobias Harris’ Playoff Performance Can Change His Future Outlook
Since it has already been reported that Tobias Harris will become an unrestricted free agent next offseason, this postseason is essentially a tryout for the 26-year-old wing.
Currently, the Detroit Pistons are considered one of the frontrunners to sign Harris. Last season, the Pistons finished with the worst record in the league. While Harris would be a welcome addition to their roster, the Pistons are unlikely to contend for a championship anytime soon.
Harris will be 32 years old by the start of next season. Realistically, he does not have much longer to be an important player on a contending team. With a good playoff run, other teams in the league could be interested in signing Harris and making him a part of their offense. If he fails, Harris may be stuck playing for a lesser team for the foreseeable future.
In the 76ers’ Game 1 loss, Harris recorded seven points, nine rebounds, and two assists in 31 minutes of action. Game 2 was a similar story for the wing as he recorded just 10 points, nine rebounds, and three assists in 41 minutes. Furthermore, he shot an inefficient 4-for-11 from the field in the loss.
Despite this, Harris knows he needs to step up for the rest of the series.
“I would love to be as aggressive as I need to be, but I also saw a few areas where I probably could have pulled the shot and it’s, like, if we’re talking to just get that type of rhythm, that flow, that may be what’s needed. Then I’ll make that adjustment.” -Tobias Harris
It Is Not Too Late for Harris’ Stock to Rise
Despite the team being down 0-2 in the series, Joel Embiid remains confident in Philadelphia’s chances of winning the series. With their backs against the wall, this is as good a time as any for Harris to play a stronger supporting role when his team needs him the most.
He may always be known by the team as a player who did not live up to his contract, but he is still a solid player. When he is hot, Harris is crucial to the team’s offensive game. On paper, he can score at all levels. Additionally, his ability to create his own shots can take some of the load off Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
The 76ers do not need him to score 30 points every night. However, if he can consistently score around 20 points the rest of the way, it will do a lot for his team right now and his stock this summer.
The 76ers will take on the Knicks back home in Game 3 on April 25. It will be worth monitoring Harris’ play in what could be one of his final games with the 76ers.
