Philadelphia 76ers Lay Groundwork for 2017 Free Agency In re-signing Power Forward Elton Brand
The Philadelphia 76ers had a successful, but austere, free agency period during the 2016 off-season. While many hoped the team might make a headliners “SPLASH!” on a big name free agent, the team settled for three signings in the back court. Point guard Sergio Rodriguez, shooting guard Gerald Henderson, and guard Jerryd Bayless joined the team in 2016 free agency. Each signing addressed the back court – a true area of need for the team. But the fan base wanted to see the team spend more money. Not just on more free agents, but on a house-hold name variety.
In the aftermath, we learned that the team did in fact extend lucrative offers to a number of veteran players, but many simply used the offer as leverage to pry more money from their former team.
Que Sera Sera.
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What the Philadelphia 76ers need is a testimonial. A spokesperson can only be effective when they are trusted throughout the NBA. One who can reassure the veterans of the league that the team is for real and authentic. The team needs a “been-there done-that” type of player. A veteran who experienced first hand the new training facility. Someone who can draw from the old-school NBA, but whose presence during Philadelphia’s commitment to being the most innovative team in the NBA.
Someone like… say… Elton Brand.
While there are many valid reasons for the team to give strong consideration to retain Brand on the 15 man roster this season, even waiving Brand to make the 15 man roster will work to the team’s advantage. Veterans want three things in free agency: a chance to compete for a championship, money, and a trustworthy organization.
In the 2016 season, not only did the 76ers struggle at the championship concept, but the team had just signed on Bryan Colangelo as the new president. Without a track record with the team, many free agents simply played it safe and joined an NBA club with front office logevity.
But 2017 free agency will be a far different setting. Presuming the team will find some moderate success, the Sixers will be well positioned to offer a potential playoff team in the 2017-2018 season. With positive momentum, cash, the remaining piece will be the trustworthiness of the team.
Elton Brand’s endorsement could make a huge difference.
With so many young players on the team, the Philadelphia 76ers may not need to sell themselves persistently to attract the attention of NBA veterans. But we witnessed the Kevin Durant sweepstakes in 2016. NBA teams woo top free agents.
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In the end, the Sixers will need someone trustworthy to speak up on their behalf. Much of Elton Brand’s role will be to mentor/coach the young front court. That’s undeniable. But don’t ignore the value of having his endorsement to other NBA veterans. The Philadelphia 76ers will need all the help they can get. Brand may just put them over the top.