​Jun 23, 2026; New York, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver greets the twenty second pick in the 2026 NBA draft, Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. after he was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-… | Source: Lastwordonsports.com – Benjamin Yu, EditorWith a new group of NBA rookies from the 2026 NBA Draft ready to take the stage, the Philadelphia 76ers have one rookie of their own this season. While their draft selection may have gone under the radar due to the 76ers’ major offseason acquisitions, the player the team drafted is still a major and exciting move. Standing at six-foot-four, Labaron Philon Jr. has proven to be one of the best guards in the entire class. The Sixers rookie is a truly talented offensive player who can expertly score on all three levels, handle the ball, and has upside on the defensive end.While Philon may not have a significant role for the Sixers this season, he does represent major potential for the future. Considering that aspect, Philon will have major expectations placed on him that he must work towards. Let’s dive into three major expectations for Philon going into the 2026-2027 NBA Season.2026-2027 NBA Rookies: 3 Expectations For Philadelphia 76ers’ Labaron PhilonExpectation #1: Gain More Weight And StrengthIn a similar vein to Los Angeles Clippers rookieKeaton Wagler, one of the major expectations for Philon’s rookie year is for him to continue his physical development. Specifically, Philon must add more strength and overall weight to his frame, as it will be critical for his long-term prospects in the league as a viable rotation player. One of the biggest knocks on him going into the draft is his lack of strength and weight, especially for a sophomore. He only weighed 175 pounds when he tested NBA waters as a freshman. This season, his weight did not improve that much, only reaching 177 pounds.Against real NBA-level competition and physicality, Philon will certainly have struggles on both ends of the floor. Physical drivers will go straight through his chest and bully him right to the rim. As for offense, Philon’s ability to break down opposing defenses and get to the paint will be hindered, as strong defenders will cause him to be bumped off course.Considering how his lack of strength and weight can be a major issue, Philon has the expectation of working on fixing that problem. It will take him multiple years to develop his body, but it is paramount that he start his work with NBA trainers immediately. The sooner Philon improves in this regard, the sooner it will be for Philon to take on real responsibilities with the Sixers. Plus, improving his strength and weight will only strengthen his already impressive skill set.Mar 27, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide guard Labaron Philon Jr. (0) drives against Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men’s 2026 NCA