Going into the matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Philadelphia 76ers left the door open for a potential Dean Wade debut. The veteran forward suffered an ankle injury during the team's preseason finale against the Boston Celtics.
Since then, Wade hasn't been practicing for the Sixers. When they approached the season opener against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, the 76ers entered the matchup with Wade listed as questionable, before ultimately ruling him out for the game.
Thursday's action against the Cavs was another opportunity for Wade to get on the court and finally suit up for the Sixers during the regular season. Once again, he was questionable leading up to the action. Unfortunately, the trend continued. The Sixers ruled Wade out, pushing his debut back another game.
Signs of promise
While an injury is always unfortunate, there are signs of promise for Wade. The veteran forward was seen at the team's morning shootaround putting in some light work. He was also getting a warm-up session in before Thursday's action at home in South Philly.
When the head coach, Nick Nurse, addressed reporters just hours before the game against the Cavs, he spoke as if Wade could get the nod to play. According to Philly Voice's Adam Aaronson, Nurse noted that the Cavaliers are a "matchup game" for the veteran forward. The Sixers would've taken advantage of utilizing Wade in a key role off the bench. Well, we can stash that idea away for now. Since Wade won't face his former team this week, his first battle against his ex will come on November 6, when the 76ers pay a visit to Cleveland, Ohio.
Dean Wade will be a key addition
The Sixers are going to view Wade as the primary backup to LeBron James at the power forward position. But just like James, Wade will be expected to play some minutes at center. Heading into the 2026-2027 NBA season, the 76ers were well aware of the fact that they have thin depth at the center. Nick Nurse looks forward to seeing LeBron and Wade garner some minutes behind Joel Embiid when necessary.
LeBron gave the role a look on Tuesday night in New York. The Sixers rolled out a combination of Adem Bona and Jabari Walker Jr. for just 13 minutes. Wade could've been a major help there--and he will be once he gets healthy again and finally suits up.
This upcoming weekend, the Sixers are going to fire up a back-to-back set. It starts on Saturday against the Milwaukee Bucks, concluding on Sunday against the Detroit Pistons.
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