The Philadelphia 76ers are seeking additional depth at power forward. While options in free agency are limited, they are considering three-point shooter Davis Bertans.
According to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer on August 13, the Sixers are eyeing Bertans but recognize he may not fully meet their needs. Pompey noted that despite Bertans’ size at 6-10 and 225 pounds, he is more of a specialist in three-point shooting rather than a traditional power forward.
Bertans recently finished a five-year, $80 million contract with the Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Charlotte Hornets. He was given this contract by the Wizards in 2020 after a career-best season averaging 15.4 points per game, largely due to his high volume of three-point attempts. However, his performance declined after the Wizards’ contract extension, with his scoring average dropping to as low as 4.6 points per game. The Hornets waived him before the final year of his contract, leaving him with a reduced salary of $5 million.
Given this reduced salary, Bertans might be open to a pay cut to join a playoff contender like the Sixers.
Bertans had a solid stint with the Hornets, averaging 8.8 points per game and shooting 37.5% from three-point range across 28 games. His overall field goal efficiency was 39.4%, but as a three-point specialist, his primary role is to stretch the floor. On the Sixers, Bertans would complement players like Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, enhancing their ability to drive to the basket.
The Sixers have had success with similar players in the past, such as JJ Redick and Georges Niang, and Bertans could potentially secure another significant contract by following their example. At 31, he still has the chance to make a notable impact.
Pompey also reported that the Sixers are considering Marcus Morris Sr. as an alternative. Morris, who previously played for the Sixers, is seen as a better fit due to his toughness, leadership, and versatility. After being traded to the San Antonio Spurs in February, Morris’ presence was missed. He played both power forward and small-ball center roles for the Sixers, averaging 6.7 points and 2.9 rebounds in 17.2 minutes per game, with a 40% shooting rate from three-point range last season.
