Nerlens Noel looks to prove to Sixers fans and to the rest of the NBA that he was worth the wait. After missing an entire season last year rehabbing his knee, Nerlens Noel looks ready to begin his NBA career. Sam Hinkie, General Manager of the Philadelphia 76ers was very cautious and most importantly patient with Nerlens last year so that he would be ready for the 2014-2015 season.
The Sixers knew what they were getting into with Noel after agreeing to the draft night trade which sent Jrue Holiday, a Philly favorite to the Pelicans in exchange for Nerlens Noel and a first round pick, that the Sixers eventually used get Dario Saric in June. The Sixers were getting an unhealthy shot blocker with a ton of potential,and were willing to wait.
The 6'11, 228 pound big man from the University of Kentucky showed some signs that he was worth the wait in summer league. Nerlens averaged 13.7 points on 52.0% shooting, 5.7 rebounds, 3.0 blocks, and 2.3 steals in 25.0 minutes per game in three games. As you can see he only played three games, but not due to any injury concerns, Hinkie was just easing him slowly into things.
As for this upcoming season, Nerlens Noel will be the starting Center of the future for a struggling Philadelphia 76ers team. Nerlens will look to shine in the starting five which contains old AAU teammate and friend, Michael Carter-Williams. We hope to see the athleticism, shot blocking, and energy that got Nerlens Noel where he is today. The future is bright for the young shot blocking, athletic freak that he is. Sixers fans get excited for the future of not just Nerlens Noel, but the Philadelphia 76ers.