The first wave of free agency has passed, but the Sixers still have a few roster spots to fill. Here are seven players who could be good fits.
The initial wave of free agency has concluded, and with the summer league wrapping up soon, the Sixers’ roster is nearly finalized. Currently, they have 12 out of 15 standard roster spots filled. Daryl Morey might choose to leave the 15th spot open for flexibility regarding future trades and to avoid the second apron. This means he will likely sign at least two more players before the start of the 2023-24 season.
As front offices adjust to the new CBA, many players in the NBA’s “middle class” have been affected the most, presenting the Sixers with opportunities to sign minimum deals that could be beneficial.
Here are seven potential options: three former Sixers and four others.
**Marcus Morris, Sr.**
The Sixers have previously shown interest in Morris, making a second homecoming appealing for the North Philly native. Head coach Nick Nurse appreciates Morris for his toughness and shooting ability (he shot 40.0% from three during his 37 games with the team). Morris could provide size at the four position off the bench and serve as a small-ball five in certain situations.
**Robert Covington**
Covington’s situation hinges on his health. He didn’t play at all in 2024 but showed glimpses of effectiveness for the Sixers. The concern is whether his absence was due to a severe bone bruise or if there are ongoing knee issues. When he did play, he contributed defensively and was effective off the ball. He would also add size at the four and could step in as a small-ball five if needed.
**Jeff Dowtin, Jr.**
At 27, Dowtin has excelled in summer league play. While that’s expected, his efficiency and composure have also been notable at the NBA level. With Cam Payne signing with the Knicks, the Sixers may need another ball-handler behind Tyrese Maxey and Kyle Lowry, making Dowtin a strong candidate for that role.
**Gordon Hayward**
Hayward’s recent performance was not ideal; he struggled during the postseason, failing to score in seven games. However, at 34, he remains a player who can dribble, pass, and shoot effectively. Despite injury setbacks throughout his career, he could be a worthwhile gamble for a team with star players. Notably, he shares a connection with Paul George, being one of the few players left from the 2010 NBA Draft.
**Davis Bertans**
Bertans has had difficulty recapturing his early career success and has changed teams frequently. Recently waived by the Hornets after being acquired from the Thunder in the Hayward trade, the 6-foot-10 forward has a career three-point shooting percentage of 39.6%. He might find more open looks with the Sixers, potentially reviving his game.
**Reggie Bullock**
Bullock had a tough time securing playing time last season with the Houston Rockets but still managed to shoot over 40% from three. In the previous two seasons with Dallas, he shot 37.0% on 5.4 attempts per game from deep. He had a strong playoff performance in 2022, starting all 18 games and shooting 39.7% from three. Although he’s now 33 and past his peak, he can still be an effective rotation player, and the Sixers have shown interest in him.
**Jordan Nwora**
Nwora stands out as a younger option at just 25. He may not have the same track record as the others, but he has the ability to shoot and score at 6-foot-8. Although his shooting numbers dipped last season while playing for the Pacers and Raptors, he previously shot 38.6% from deep over his first three seasons. He could compete for a roster spot while providing offense when needed. If he doesn’t succeed, he would only cost a minimum salary.
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