While the trade market is getting all the attention right now (aside from recent individual scoring explosions, of course), most teams in the playoff picture are also monitoring the looming buyout market. The same rings truer for the Philadelphia 76ers. which are expected to be in the hunt for more external help to bolster their postseason run.
Just recently, the 76ers were linked to Gordon Hayward, who was a prime candidate to be bought out by the Charlotte Hornets eventually due to his expiring deal. A slew of veterans looking to ring-chase should also break into the buyout market, but no one projects to be a snugger fit in Philadelphia than this player who’s also commanding major attention as a late-season addition.
The 76ers are favorites to land this former All-Star point guard via the buyout market
The Miami Heat made waves earlier this week when they made a big move to trade for Terry Rozier, who was having his best season yet for Charlotte. In return, they sent Kyle Lowry’s expiring contract to the Hornets in addition to a conditional first-round pick in 2027.
Charlotte did not instantly drop the hammer on Lowry under the belief that they can eventually find a taker for his services, but realistically speaking, they will hard-pressed to find a team with the financial legroom to absorb his contract and the actual need for his declining skills. As a result, it’s almost a safe bet at this point that the veteran will eventually be bought out.
Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer pointed out that the 76ers are the most well-positioned team to pursue the six-time All-Star. Philly is one of the few teams in contention who are below the first luxury tax apron which, according to new CBA provisions, is a non-negotiable when trying to pluck from the buyout market.
In addition, Philadelphia is widely believed to be seeking aid in the backcourt, where they currently have limited creators outside of Tyrese Maxey. Lowry may be a shell of his former self, but he can still come in and be a reliable table-setter and respectable floor-spacer in spurts. His ample playoff experience which once culminated into a championship would also be a warm bonus.
Should the Hornets part ways with Kyle Lowry, the Philadelphia 76ers should immediately make a play for him. After all, they present the most ideal situation for him to get that elusive second ring, which he failed to get in Miami.