4 free agents the 76ers should target to replace Buddy Hield

An unreliable cast and an untimely off game from Joel Embiid in Game 5 with the team down 3-1 almost booted the Philadelphia 76ers out of the playoffs. Fortunately, Tyrese Maxey exploded for 46 points, sending the series back to Philly with the chance to force a win-or-go-home Game 7.

One of the most notable absences from the 76ers’ side in the series is Buddy Hield, who’s been a total non-factor after a productive stint with the team since the trade deadline. Now out of Nick Nurse’s rotation, he’s also become an unlikely returnee for next season.

As a result, Philadelphia’s front office should look into replacing Hield in free agency. Here are four players they can target to take his place next season.

Malik Monk could give the 76ers a more consistent and all-around second-unit weapon

Regardless if Philadelphia manages to pluck that third star they’ve been salivating about, it’s clear as day that the 76ers badly need to ameliorate their second unit. That’s become a point of exploitation for them in the playoffs, where Hield’s disappearing act has singlehandedly forced Nurse to trim down an already short rotation.

Enter Malik Monk, the runner-up for the Sixth Man of the Year award this season. Despite posting his best season yet, Sacramento is far from a guarantee to re-sign him as they are expected to overhaul their roster after a disappointing campaign. If so, the 76ers should immediately come knocking at his door.

One of the best pick-and-roll operators in the league, Monk is a potent second-unit mercenary who can handle lengthy playmaking loads while functioning as a reliable shot creator himself on all three levels. He can play both guard positions, and his defense has improved to a point where he’s now playable on that end.