Sixers player evaluation: JaKarr Sampson

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Over the next couple of weeks we will evaluate the Sixers' roster following the 18-64 season. Up next is JaKarr Sampson.

Position: Guard
Status: Signed to rookie deal through 2017. The Sixers have a fourth-year option for 2017-18 season

Signature game of 2014-15
Sampson scored a career-high 22 points with five rebounds and six assists in the season finale against the Heat. In 74 games with the Sixers, Sampson scored in double digits 12 times.

Sampson in 2014-15
A rookie out of St. John’s, Sampson was one of the Sixers’ most pleasant surprises last season. A versatile guard who can hit a three-pointer on occasion, Sampson was undrafted, but quickly won over the Sixers’ coaching staff with his defense and willingness to do anything.

Sampson played point guard, two-guard and small forward last season. Notably, Sampson showed potential at point guard where his 6-foot-9, 220 pound frame was an asset on defense.

Prospectus
Sampson was thrown into starting at point guard after Tony Wroten was injured and Michael Carter-Williams was traded. On a normal team, this would never happen, but there is very little that has been standard operating procedure.

Though Sampson didn’t stun anyone with his ability to play point guard, he didn’t embarrass himself, either. In fact, Sampson made the most of the opportunity and showed that he has a place in the NBA, or, in the very least, with the Sixers next season.

On JaKarr Sampson …
“Defense is natural. I love guarding the guards on defense. Pressuring them and stuff like that, it comes easy to me. I feel like it's helped my game being able to play a little bit of point this season. It's helped me be more confident in my dribble. Having the ball in my hand has made me more comfortable with it.”
-- JaKarr Sampson, Feb. 10, 2015 

“[He] stands out. You look at the multiple positions he has played. And he comes with a tremendous spirit.”
-- Brett Brown, April 16, 2015 

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