Philadelphia 76ers sign Ronald Roberts, Jr.: Analysis

The Philadelphia 76ers have signed undrafted free agent Ronald Roberts, Jr. to a three-year deal, according to Sportando.

As mentioned above, this is a partially guaranteed deal, meaning it’s probably just a camp invite with a small guarantee. But if he doesn’t make the Sixers, it’ll be interesting to see what happens with him. Rumors were swirling that he was ready to sign with Chalon in the French League for the season prior to this deal. However, it wouldn’t surprise me if the Sixers guaranteed him a little bit extra to stay on with their D-League team in Delaware if he doesn’t make the team.

Roberts is a skinny 6’9 power forward out of Saint Joseph’s that can jump out of the gym. In that regard, he is comparable to other elite forward athletes, such as Aaron Gordon. His athletic explosiveness is absolutely the key to his success, as it allows him to elevate above players at the rim both when scoring and when rebounding. He also has excellent hands that allow him to grasp whatever is in his vicinity. That athleticism also allows him to be a menace defensively, where he is active in space but doesn’t play the post particularly well due to his size.

The problem is that the skill level here is still pretty low and his footwork could use some work. His weight is also a concern, as he’s a bit below 220 pounds. He also flashed the potential of a nice little 18 foot jumper in the Orlando Summer League, but it’s still pretty flat and could use some work. That shot will be the key to his NBA potential, as he doesn’t have the frame to consistently bang in the paint. Therefore, becoming a pick-and-roll/pop option on offense and an active pick-and-roll defender on defense is his best chance to make the NBA.

With the Sixers roster, there’s definitely a chance Roberts makes the team. He’ll battle with Brandon Davies, Jarvis Varnado, Henry Sims, and possibly even Arnett Moultrie to get one of the final spots on the roster. Roberts still needs some work, but if they can polish his skills there’s a chance they’ll get a useful player here.