Sixers’ Robert Covington opens up on staying professional amid changes
PHILADELPHIA–Philadelphia 76ers forward Robert Covington had a limited role over a quick stretch of games before making an impact in Monday’s blowout win over the Washington Wizards.
Covington only played four first-half minutes in a Dec. 6 win over the Wizards and then racked up a DNP-CD against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday. It was a bit surprising when considering how well he has been playing on the defensive end all season long and the impact he makes off the bench.
One has to wonder if that bothers the veteran out of Tennessee State, but Covington is no stranger to these types of situations. He went through something similar with the Los Angeles Clippers.
“I just went through a whole year to—no,” he scoffed at the notion of it being tough for him. “No. Not at all. We’re a deep team so no it does not.”
Coach Nick Nurse has made it clear that he is still figuring out the rotation for this group. He is looking for the right mixture of players to ensure that the Sixers succeed on a nightly basis. This is a veteran group that understands how everything works.
“It’s the way that he’s still figuring it out line up, Covington added. “So you know, whatever happens, I’ll go and just stay ready. That’s a prime example.”
In Monday’s win, Covington had eight points with four rebounds and a couple of deflections. He did what he is asked to do and it’s another example of his professionalism. He stayed ready and helped the Sixers run away from the Wizards early.
“Listen, you gotta be prepared,” Covington finished. “You gotta be a pro. Every time you step on a court and your name’s called, you gotta be prepared. That’s it at the end of the day. I went through the stuff that I went through LA, everybody asked the same questions. ‘How do I stay ready?’ It’s a mental thing.”
The Sixers will now move on to face the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday on the road.
