3 Free Agents the 76ers Should Sign for the Veteran Minimum
By Cem Yolbulan
Dennis Smith Jr.
Philadelphia still has to round out their roster but it's clear that they need more perimeter defense. Paul George, Caleb Martin, and Kelly Oubre are all solid defenders but they are not the best at guarding the point of attack. Tyrese Maxey is still a defensive liability and Eric Gordon is not the defender he once was.
One more backcourt player who can defend the best guards on the opposing team would be useful for the Sixers. Someone who can play next to Maxey but also complements Jared McCain on bench units would be an ideal addition. Enter Dennis Smith Jr.
Not only is the 26-year-old combo guard one of the best backcourt defenders in the league, but he is also one of the most versatile. He can switch onto bigger and stronger players, making the fit on the defensive end much easier for the rest of the team.
Smith's scoring and shooting leave plenty to be desired. So he is better utilized as a defensive specialist or a depth piece but on a veteran minimum, the Sixers can do much worse.
Doug McDermott
If you have Joel Embiid on your team, the best thing you can do as you construct your team is to surround him with as many shooters as possible. The Sixers already did a decent job of that by drafting Jared McCain and signing Eric Gordon and Paul George. However, you can never have too much shooting on a team.
One position of need for the Sixers right now is more power-forward depth. Caleb Martin is the projected starter and he is a solid two-way player. However, his three-point shot can be inconsistent. Having a backup behind him who is a reliable shooter would make things easier for coach Nick Nurse.
Doug McDermott fits that mold. He is a limited player, especially on the defensive end, but he is a career 41% three-point shooter. A team can still run plays for him on bench units and when you need a three. Thanks to his good size, he has the ability to get his shot off over the defender, making him a solid fit on a veteran minimum contract.
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