76ers quietly make big move to fill crucial role for next season

Following their early free agency bonanza, the Philadelphia 76ers are still left with a handful of roster spots they are eyeing to fill out ahead of the 2024-25 season. While they are definitely already penciled in as winners no matter how they go about things to finish the offseason off, it never hurts to double down on depth and bring in reinforcements at every position.

One area where the team is clearly lacking is the point guard position. Outside of Tyrese Maxey –– a converted floor general –– and Kyle Lowry, the 76ers have a dearth of other natural playmakers on the roster. This is even more pressing given that the latter is already 38 and will inevitably need an easier load next season.

Luckily, Philly's brass has apparently heeded the call after their quietly big move.

76ers sign Jeff Dowtin Jr. to help fill crucial PG role next season

On Sunday night, the 76ers have reportedly come to termssixers with guard Jeff Dowtin Jr. on a two-way deal that will keep him in Philadelphia. The front office declined his team option for next season early, on, but the 27-year-old now gets to stay with a franchise with the chance of getting into the regular roster after training camp.

Dowtin rode a strong Summer League performance to officially return to the 76ers. He turned in nightly averages of 12 points and 5.3 assists in Salt Lake City before similarly thriving in Vegas, registering 17.3 markers and six dimes per outing.

While he will be on a two-way contract, that does not preclude him from bagging a bigger role or deal later on. The 76ers still have four, open roster spots, and even if he stays on a two-way arrangement, he's bound to have a shot at playing time if Lowry misses games due to injury or rest.

Jared McCain and Ricky Council IV also turned in notable performances during the Summer League, but neither profiles as a capable second-unit table setter. Dowtin, who has considerable experience playing under Nick Nurse, could edge them in manning the lead guard role when needed.