By Andy Jasner
Carl Landry arrived in Philadelphia as part of the deal which also brought guard Nik Stauskas.
What a bonus.
The 32-year-old forward has proven to be a valuable leader on a Sixers team which needs guidance from veteran players. Until Elton Brand came aboard, Landry was the oldest player.
Since recovering from a nasty wrist injury, Landry has shown why he’s so valuable. He can knock down the mid-range jumper on a consistent basis. He can rebound with bigger, stronger players in traffic. His defense is solid. He’s a very good passer.
Landry does everything well on the court and he’s a leader by example off the court.
For a player who was projected by many to be waived after the trade from Sacramento, Landry has carved his niche quite nicely.
“It’s funny because when you come into the league, you’re just a young player looking to make your mark,” Landry said. “You just want to play well and show the coaches that you’re good enough to stay. You want to come in and just work and go about your business. Then, all of a sudden, you’re a veteran in this league. It’s crazy to think about it and I never set out to be a leader. I think it just comes from experience and a desire and willingness to do things the right way.
“I’m going to come in every day and do my job. If a teammate has a question, I’m here to listen and help. I’ll just be a pro. I came into the league like that and when I go out, I want it to be the same way. I was fortunate when I was young in that I got good minutes as a young player. That’s not always the case. You never know what’s going to happen. I want to help these young guys. We’re not winning a lot now, but with injured guys coming back and another offseason, I think you’ll see a whole different look around here.
“There is so much potential around here. If I can help out a little bit and push things in that direction, then that’s a very good thing. For me, nothing changes. My work ethic will always remain the same.”
Landry came into the league in 2007 from Purdue. The Sixers represent his sixth team. He’s been traded. He’s been injured. He’s dealt with several surgeries in different seasons which required mental and physical toughness to keep coming back.
He was then sent to a team in the Sixers which is clearly rebuilding. He takes everything in a positive way.
“I had some good talks with coach (Brett) Brown when I was out because it’s tough sometimes,” Landry said. “You’re a competitor and you want to play. You want to be on the court in practice and in the games with your teammates. You want to travel and be in on all the film sessions and everything else associated with a team. Coming back has been great. It’s so great to be back with my teammates and a part of all this.”
Landry never envisioned being a leader when he broke into the league. It was about playing hard, listening and learning. Those characteristics still apply. He’s just a little bit more savvy now.
“Sure, experience is important and I see how a veteran player can help a rookie or second-year player,” Landry said. “There’s so much that goes into this on an everyday basis. If I can help anyone in any way, even if it’s the smallest way possible, I’m happy to do it. I feel like it’s my obligation. I’m thrilled to do it.”
Landry’s words also carry more weight because of his ability. He has shot 50 percent or better from the field in every single season since his career began in ’07. He knows how to play and it’s evident every time he steps on the floor.
The Sixers have been a major beneficiary from Landry’s return from a wrist injury.
“To survive in this league, you have to do something well and then fill in the blanks and hustle like crazy,” Landry said. “I think showing up, working hard, paying attention … all the things that add up being successful … and you can have a nice career. At this point, I’m happy to pass on that information and say, ‘Here’s what you have to do on a consistent basis.’ You’re not going to have good shooting games all the time in this marathon of a season. You need to have a well-rounded game. I feel good. I’m excited about making my contribution to the future success here.”
