Nick Piccone
Don’t look for the Philadelphia 76ers to make a huge splash in the free agent market this offseason. I’m not sure any of us were, but that fact seems to have been doubled down by ESPN’s Zach Lowe, who writes that the Sixers aren’t looking to add a long-term piece to the puzzle. At least not yet. [ESPN]
The Sixers have told agents they will seek one-year deals this summer to preserve future space — and possibly use some of their current room to extend Robert Covington. The one-year gambit will be a hard sell for high-profile guys. J.J. Redick didn’t wait this long to sign a one-year deal at age 33.
Not surprising at all. The Sixers have plenty of time to see if Brett Brown can utilize Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Dario Saric and Markelle Fultz into one of the best starting rotations in the NBA. I think he’s got a good shot. Then the Sixers can look at free agency next summer to see what they really need. It’s a tough sell right now, because nobody really knows what the Sixers have.
But if last January is any indication, then, we’re in for a pretty damn good future. And I’m not so sure free agents would be scared away of a chance at a championship.
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