Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Paul George drew notable comparisons between his rookie teammate VJ Edgecombe and <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA star Jimmy Butler during a recent preview of the upcoming season. Edgecombe, the 6-foot-5 swingman selected third overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, has shown promising skills that have caught George’s attention.
Edgecombe, a Baylor standout, delivered strong numbers in his single collegiate season as a 19-year-old, averaging 15.0 points per game on shooting splits of .436 from the field, .340 from three-point range, and .782 at the free-throw line, along with 5.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists. His entry into the 76ers roster is seen as part of a youth infusion meant to complement the experienced core of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey.
Rookie’s Role Amid 76ers’ Aging Core and Future Prospects
The addition of Edgecombe aligns with a strategic effort by the 76ers to blend rookie talent with established stars. With Embiid, 31, and George, 35, both having dealt with various injuries last season limiting their contributions, the younger players like Edgecombe, Maxey, and second-year guard Jared McCain are expected to take on more responsibility over time. However, the team faces a balancing act as its veteran leaders may be approaching the twilight of their peak years before the younger players fully develop.
Paul George Applauds Edgecombe’s Early Summer League Performance
On his podcast, Podcast P with Paul George, the 35-year-old All-Star praised Edgecombe’s transition from college basketball to the NBA, highlighting the increased floor spacing and opportunities available. George said,
“I thought he looked good on both ends of the floor. It’s dope to see the difference between college and NBA with spacing. Because, you know, he was able to get to his midi. He was able to see space on the floor. He was spacing behind the 3-point line. He was attacking in transition. Like there’s just so much space for guys when you cross over from college to the NBA.”
—Paul George, 76ers All-Star Small Forward
George further emphasized his belief in Edgecombe’s competitiveness and style of play by comparing him directly to Jimmy Butler, an elite two-way player who continues to excel despite several years in the league.
“He got that dog in him. Watching him, it was like watching a young Jimmy,”
George shared, adding,
“He moves like Jimmy. He kind of has that mid-range tenacity. He’s kind of got a lot of the Jimmy likeness to him, so he’s definitely going to be good.”
—Paul George, 76ers All-Star Small Forward
Injury Update and Prospective Impact on 76ers’ Season
Following the promising early signs, the 76ers also addressed an injury update concerning Edgecombe on Wednesday, providing further clarity on the rookie’s readiness and outlook. This status will influence how quickly the team can integrate him into their rotation, capitalizing on his evident potential.
The 76ers’ management and coaching staff are hopeful that with Edgecombe’s skill set complementing the likes of Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain, the team can navigate the coming seasons effectively. Their combined growth will be critical in sustaining competitive success amid the gradual aging of stars Embiid and George.
Edgecombe’s promising summer performances and Paul George’s glowing comparisons set expectations that he could be a vital piece in the franchise’s future, potentially impacting the team’s trajectory both immediately and in the years ahead.