Sixers free agency 2021: Grading the Danny Green contract

The Sixers re-signed Danny Green to a two-year, $20 million contract, with the second year non-guaranteed. Harrison Sanford, Green’s podcast co-host, broke the news, leading many around the city to rejoice.

Green was an important part of the rotation last season. After widespread speculation about his future, many expected the 34-year-old to jump ship. His return, however, cements Philadelphia’s elite starting five, which ranked among the best statistical lineups in basketball last season — a fact Daryl Morey will quickly remind you of.

Not only was Green the Sixers’ most reliable volume shooter, but he was also one of Philadelphia’s better wing defenders. His veteran savvy makes up for lost athleticism, and in the playoffs, he did a stellar job stonewalling Russell Westbrook.

How does the Sixers’ bargain re-signing of Danny Green grade out?

This is pretty much a steal for the Sixers. Green establishes continuity amid the growing Ben Simmons noise, and prevents a situation where Furkan Korkmaz or Matisse Thybulle are rushed into a starting role. Green could decline in his age-34 season, but since his contract is non-guaranteed in the second year, there’s no long-term risk. If he performs well, then Philadelphia can bring him back for another run in 2022-23.

Green’s contract also becomes a juicy trade chip — one the Sixers can use to match salaries closer to the deadline, with Seth Curry ($8.2 million) being the other notable earner outside the core trio. If Green stumbles, his contract is a valuable asset. There’s very little downside.

For the season, Green shot 40.5 percent from deep on a career-high 6.3 attempts per game. On top of his shooting, Green’s basketball I.Q. is criminally underrated. He’s prone to the occasional brain fart, but on the whole, he’s such a smart cutter and ball-mover, that Philadelphia’s offense would have looked drastically different with anyone else in his role.

Re-signing Green was always the big offseason goal, aside from acquiring Damian Lillard or Bradley Beal. The latter is still a work in progress, but with Green on board, there’s less room for total catastrophe in 2021-22. Knock on wood, the Sixers should look the part of contenders once more.

Grade: A+