It was entirely predictable that the Sixers’ signing of DeAndre Jordan wouldn’t help their backup center situation. It was a better idea in theory, when you thought of the prototypical center that could complement James Harden in non-Joel Embiid minutes — a high-flying rebounder, rim roller, and shot blocker. Someone with the skills that made Jordan so impactful in his prime.
But that isn’t who Jordan is anymore. He’s declined a lot over the last few seasons, to the point where his motor, speed, agility and defense have dropped off so much that he can’t consistently fill the rim-running, shot-blocker role even in short stints off the bench.