Mar 21, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Spencer Hawes (00) drives to the basket against Denver Nuggets center Kosta Koufos (41) during the second half at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 101-100. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
#4 – Spencer Hawes
Hawes was never intended to be a starter last season, after the 76ers acquired Andrew Bynum, but if you played fantasy basketball you know what he is capable of. Hawes struggled to find his footing early on, but put together an impressive stretch of sheer dominance to close the season out. He’s not the most consistent center, but at 7’0”, 245 lbs, he can clean the glass. Plus, how many NBA centers can make 3-pointers?
Philly will look to justify the Bynum deal and get him back on the court as soon as possible. The man child missed the entire 2012-2013 season and was paid nearly $17 million to show up in a suit and tie. I would be utterly stunned if they did not try to re-sign him. They are not a major free agent destination this year and Bynum is the closest thing they have to a superstar, injured or not. They’ll look to get their money’s worth.
Meaning little old Hawes would lose priority again. He is owed $6.5 million next season and could be the right guy for Leonard to learn from (at a low price) if Philadelphia looks to balance their roster.