Sixers: 5 bargain bin free agent targets

Sixers bargain bin free agent targets: Isaac Bonga

Isaac Bonga enters unrestricted free agency after the Wizards declined his qualifying offer. The German has struggled to establish consistency in Washington, but that is not entirely his fault. The Wizards have been a historically gunky and ill-constructed team, with a wealth of young talent at Bonga’s position. A new team could breed new life.

The Sixers should come calling, and Bonga will not cost a lot. Last season, he appeared in only 40 games (eight starts), averaging 2.0 points and 1.7 rebounds in 10.8 minutes a night. Those numbers are misleading. He has real potential to contribute, even if the Sixers’ depth would make it hard for Bonga to earn immediate playing time.

At 6-foot-8, Bonga is a versatile defender, with active hands and nimble feet. He can glide across the floor, switching screens, containing drives, and plugging into any number of lineup combinations. That defensive ability alone — especially with Ben Simmons’ imminent departure — should entice the Sixers.

Also, there’s a lot to like about the idea of Bonga offensively. He hasn’t had much room to blossom in D.C., but once upon a time, Bonga was billed as a jumbo-sized point guard. He has real playmaking talent, even if he’s better in an off-ball role. The Sixers cannot lose sight of the future entirely, and Bonga is still only 21 years old. He’s a name to watch.