The Philadelphia 76ers have made a strong start to the season, boasting a record of 4-1 for the first time since 2019, fueled by a dynamic guard duo and a talented group of wings stepping up in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George. A significant contributor to this promising start has been veteran center Andre Drummond. With an impressive average of 7.5 rebounds per game despite limited playing time, Drummond has proven vital to the team’s success, particularly in offensive rebounding.
Drummond’s journey in Philadelphia has been marked by ups and downs over the past five seasons. He showcased his value as a capable backup to Embiid in the 2021-22 season but was traded mid-season during the James Harden deal, impacting the team’s performance in the playoffs when they fell to the Miami Heat amidst injuries. His return as Embiid’s backup in the 2024-25 season saw limited appearances, prompting speculation about his overall effectiveness in the league.
However, this season has brought a surprising resurgence for Drummond. Initially, he was not expected to play a significant role, with hopes hinging on Embiid’s improved health. Many anticipated that Drummond’s five million dollar contract would serve more as a trade asset than an on-court asset, but he has stepped up to fill the void when Embiid is unavailable.
The current roster configuration aligns well with Drummond’s strengths. Head Coach Nick Nurse is focusing on enhancing offensive rebounding, an area where Drummond has historically excelled, having led the NBA in offensive rebounds for seven seasons throughout his 14-year career. The synergy between Drummond and young center Adem Bona, particularly in their aggressive approach on the boards, has revitalized not just Drummond’s performance but also the team’s offensive dynamics.
While it is unlikely that he will sustain his current rebounding numbers—especially considering he is tied for 38th in the league in rebounds per game while averaging minimal minutes—his contributions cannot be overlooked. Early opponents may not have posed the toughest challenges, but Drummond’s performance has already drawn attention. Even if his statistics begin to taper off, his unwavering effort and influential presence in the locker room may make it challenging for the 76ers’ management to part ways with him as the trade deadline approaches. This unexpected boost from Drummond adds an optimistic twist to the 76ers’ season, affirming that his best days may not be behind him after all.