The Philadelphia 76ers have been gearing up for NBA free agency to start just like the rest of the league. The Sixers, like a handful of teams, have been trying to clear cap space to add useful rotation players to prepare for a deep postseason run. Philadelphia seemingly found another avenue to add another player due to James Harden’s opting out of his $47.4 million dollar player option.
The team-friendly move opens up space for the Sixers to use the bi-annual exception (BAE). The bi-annual exception is another contract clause eligible for NBA teams that are over the salary cap. Furthermore, the BAE is worth $4.1 million. Basically, the exception can be a one or two-year deal in between the minimum and the mid-level exception.
The contract terms for the NBA feel like they are ever-evolving. Yet, it is a vital part of understanding why which team can do what with their roster. Now that we’re all up to speed, let’s look at 3 likely candidates for the Sixers to use the bi-annual exception on.
Philadelphia 76ers: 3 Bi-annual exception guys to pursue in free agency: Juan Toscano-Anderson
The first option for consideration is Juan Toscano-Anderson. The wing player from the Golden State Warriors finds himself hitting free agency due to the reigning champs’ log jam on the bench. Anderson has been useful in his short career in the NBA as he is entering his fourth season in the NBA.
Anderson or JTA as he’s been referred to as is not someone who will make tons of headlines should he sign with the Sixers. Judging by his stats, Anderson is averaging 4.8 points per game on .523/.361/.613 shooting. The most crucial stat to measure there is his 36.1 percent three-point shooting.
The ability to hit threes at an NBA-average level will help the Sixers’ offense. Anderson is more known for his athleticism and his defense. The 6-foot-6, 209-pound wing has many aggressive in-game dunks as well as competing in the 2022 NBA dunk contest.
The Marquette product competes on defense, containing first and second perimeter options at times. Willing to take on those tough matchups as well as pick up for his teammates by meeting rotations and helping on defense. Toscano-Anderson’s frame, energy, and enthusiasm bode well for the role he has played in the NBA thus far as well as fitting right into what the Sixers need out of their bench.