Free agency in the NBA is all about the first wave, and with that having already lapsed, teams are now looking at a near-depleted pool. Certain teams still in need of actual players though, such as the Philadelphia 76ers, have no time to pout, especiall considering the amount of openings they still have on their roster.
After inking Kyle Lowry and rookie Adem Bona to new deals, the 76ers still have four roster spots available. While they don’t have to fill all of those up, it wouldn’t hurt to go after players who can man those openings. Here are five cost-friendly free agents still available who can claim any of those slots.
5. Robert Covington is a serviceable option at forward for the 76ers
Despite adding Paul George and Caleb Martin, the 76ers remain very thin at the forward position. Aside from Kelly Oubre Jr., who’s better slotted as a shooting guard, the team doesn’t have anyone who can back them up — a massive problem for a team not known for being able to dodge the injury bug.
As a result, it could be worthwhile to re-sign Robert Covington. While his second wind in Philadelphia got derailed by injuries last season, there’s still much to like about his ancillary skill set within the team’s new dynamic. Sure, he doesn’t offer a lot outside of defense and league-average three-point shooting, but the 76ers don’t need him to.
Philly needs players willing to do the dirty work and thrive in low-usage roles, and Covington certainly fits the billing. He’s still an analytics darling on the defensive end, and his activity on that end would be terrific next to offensive-minded stars.