76ers starting small forward: Caleb Martin
2023-24 Stats: 10.0 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.7 SPG
The safer bet right now to assume this role is Nicolas Batum, who’s widely expected to re-sign in Philly should he opt not to retire, but that’s a boring prediction. An interesting option the 76ers should laser in on is Heat forward Caleb Martin, who will reportedly decline his player option to return to Miami next season.
In search of a bigger payday, the 76ers have the required pocket breadth to lure Martin in. He doesn’t project to be a paralyzingly expensive get, and even better, he is exactly what the 76ers need in a role player with his skill set.
Under Erik Spoelstra, Martin has grown to become a reliable two-way impact player with an uncanny court sense. He’s a passable threat from downtown, prolific in attacking close-outs and cutting through open lanes, and functioning as a quasi-playmaker when needed. He could be someone who can help the team avoid flinching even if Batum hangs it up.