The Philadelphia 76ers are gearing up to solidify their roster for the upcoming season, with plans to retain Nicolas Batum, Kelly Oubre Jr, and Kyle Lowry.
These three players have proven their compatibility with stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, and the team is optimistic about their ability to keep them without breaking the bank.
According to sources familiar with the team’s plans, Nicolas Batum, Kelly Oubre Jr, and Kyle Lowry are high on the priority list for re-signing, considering the constraints of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), as reported by Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Batum, acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers in a November trade, quickly established himself as a valuable asset for the Sixers. His contributions extended beyond statistics, as he brought a blend of solid defense and efficient offense to the team without monopolizing possession.
During his tenure in Philadelphia, spanning 57 games, Batum maintained averages of 5.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court.
With a salary of $11.7 million last season, Batum’s Bird rights are held by the team, indicating a cap hold of $17.5 million for the 35-year-old veteran.
While an increase in salary is expected for Batum, the team anticipates negotiating a shorter contract than initially envisioned, reflecting their strategic approach to roster management.