5 76ers who could be forced into retirement after the season

2. Cameron Payne

The 6’3 guard has bounced around the NBA since the end of last season. He was traded to the Spurs in July of 2023 before being waived and agreeing with the Bucks. Milwaukee then traded him to Philadelphia before the deadline. Payne has technically been part of four different organizations over the last year and could be on the verge of falling out of the league.

He bounced around before finding a consistent role with the Suns. He helped them reach the NBA Finals in 2021 as their backup point guard, but there have always been holes in his game. Payne struggles with his defense and shooting efficiency, which limits his effectiveness. The 76ers have a negative-3.8 net rating with him on the floor this season.

Payne becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer and will be searching for another minimum deal. The Suns are unlikely to take him back as the team needs stout defenders around their three stars. Can the 29-year-old find a new deal? He has already played for six different organizations in nine years, so finding a new home may prove difficult.

Cameron Payne has plenty to prove down the stretch and into the playoffs. If he can make a significant impact, it would certainly improve his stock heading into free agency, but it appears unlikely.