When the Philadelphia 76ers announced the signing of 23-year-old forward Jabari Walker on a two-way contract for the 2025-26 campaign, much of the fan base would have expected him to play a small role in the rotation.
Yet, after two impactful performances against the New York Knicks during the Abu Dhabi series -- in which Philadelphia suffered two consecutive defeats -- Walker may have forced his way into head coach Nick Nurse's plans for the Sixers' season opener against the Boston Celtics on October 22.
Jabari Walker could help solve the 76ers' depth issues
It is clear that bolstering their backcourt has been the priority of Philadelphia's offseason, but this tunnel vision approach has left the franchise looking very scarce in forward positions. Eyebrows were raised over the abundance of guards that the 76ers had signed; however, Nick Nurse's media day comments described how the team could set up this year, clarifying the decision-making process.
The Colorado graduate was limited to around 12.5 minutes per game during the previous campaign when playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 5.2 points and 3.5 rebounds while shooting 51.5% from the floor. Not exactly the numbers that would elevate the hopes of the 76ers' loyal support, although his two games in a Sixers jersey could shift that perception.
Walker recorded 10 points, two assists, one steal, and one block from the bench in the second matchup with the Knicks -- a tally that will be useful in regular-season games when the perceived frontcourt starters, such as Kelly Oubre Jr. and Paul George, are not available for selection or they are taking their seat on the bench.
It was not just the numerical impact on offense that showcased Walker's usefulness to this roster; it was his ability to space the floor and aggressively driving into the paint, while still having the vision to kick the ball out to the perimeter for his teammates to have an open look.
Presumably, Jabari Walker will not have done enough to knock certain players off their starting perches just yet. Nevertheless, with George being plagued by injury issues during his debut season with the Sixers and Justin Edwards struggling for form, the versatile forward will have a substantial opportunity to force his way into Nick Nurse's plans.