After suffering immensely on the defensive end last season (thanks in large part to the myriad of injuries they faced all year long), the Philadelphia 76ers have climbed up the ranks on the less glamorous end of the floor. From finishing a paltry 26th in defensive rating in 2024-25, they are now 15th in that department, reflecting the steps they have taken to improve on that end.
Being in the middle of the pack on defense, however, hardly imbues much confidence on the feasibility of their title aspirations this season. The 76ers need to take another leap as a point-preventing unit to be a true force to be reckoned with come playoff time. But unbeknownst to many, the front office actually did acquire someone who can be a weapon for them on that end — Dalen Terry.
Shortly after the trade deadline, the 76ers signed Terry to a two-way contract. Still only 23 years old, the former 18th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft will have the chance to showcase his skills in the G-League. However, if there is one NBA-ready trait he has which the team could use, it is his defensive acuity and effort.
Dalen Terry quietly brings defensive aptitude to the 76ers
Terry never really got consistent minutes in his first four seasons as a pro with the Chicago Bulls. With his team putting an emphasis on offense, he was rarely even in the picture. A career 31.7 percent three-point shooter, he was basically a dicey player to entrench in their rotation the way their roster is built.
But with the 76ers, if he gets to play, he will be there for his defense. Bulls fans became weary of his silly on-ball mistakes and sheer lack of an NBA-ready offensive game, but they were always appreciative of his energy, especially on the defensive end. That is certainly something which this team needs on the margins.
In all likelihood, he will probably not get to sniff the court that much, if at all. However, having players who are willing to do the dirty work and embrace the mundane will be key to building a well-rounded supporting cast. Also, investing on defense is cheaper than doubling down on offensive creators, so he does have a chance to stick with the team if he can polish his aptitude on D even more.
Dalen Terry will not be a household name anytime soon, but if he can fully showcase his strengths as a defender, this signing will easily end up paying off in a big way for the 76ers.