Philadelphia 76ers forward Tobias Harris has been focusing on being “considered a two-way player” this season, according to Serena Winters of NBC Sports Philadelphia.
Harris, who made a sizable jump in his 3-point shooting the last two seasons, has made improvements in his lateral quickness and staying lower for longer, which should only bode well for his all-around defense entering this 2019-20 season.
Unlike the past season, Harris will be able to play at his natural position now that Jimmy Butler was signed, then traded to the Miami Heat in the offseason. As a 6-foot-9 small forward, Harris will boast some size over smaller players at his position, including a decent wingspan to contest shots and get on passing lanes in opportune ways.
Head coach Brett Brown already gave newcomer Josh Richardson the go-ahead as the primary perimeter defender, and the Sixers should fend well in the post with Joel Embiid and now Al Horford patrolling the paint. Yet having another threat on defense is always a welcome sight, and if Harris can take that next step to become a two-way player, it would do wonders not only for his chances to become an All-Star this season, but also boost the Sixers' chances to make a splash in the playoffs.
Harris has the youth and the physical tools to become a good defender, making this a natural step in his progression after agreeing to a five-year, $180 million deal this summer.
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