Holmes clears concussion protocol, assigned to 87ers

By Brandon Apter, Sports Talk Philly editor  

Philadelphia 76ers center Richaun Holmes has officially cleared NBA concussion protocol and will suit up tonight for the Delaware 87ers. He expects to be ready when the Sixers head to Boston on Friday for their match-up against the Celtics.

Richaun Holmes – who completed/passed the NBA concussion protocol – has been assigned to @Sevens. He is expected to be in uniform tonight.

— Philadelphia 76ers (@Sixers) January 4, 2017

It's not a surprise that have a big man logjam on their hands, but one man who is often lost in the shuffle is second-year reserve center Richaun Holmes. Due to the overwhelming number of players over 6-foot-10 on the roster, Holmes has seen very little action, especially since the return of Nerlens Noel. Holmes suffered a concussion in practice prior to the teams' four-game road trip, but hasn't played since December 14. 

Holmes makes an impact every time he steps onto the floor, whether it be executing the pick-and-roll offense or protecting the rim. Despite receiving minimal playing time, Holmes consistently brings energy to the court and provides a nice spark off the bench. If the Sixers do end up trading Nerlens Noel and/or Jahlil Okafor, Holmes could be in line for more minutes, but right now he likely won't get much of an extended look with so many big men in front of him.

In 21 contests this season, Holmes is putting up 6.9 points and 4.3 rebounds in 16 minutes per game. He's shooting 51.3 percent from the floor.