76ers Poach Frontcourt Piece From Eastern Conference Rival

The Philadelphia 76ers are in the midst of a huge offseason that could potentially catapult them into top-tier contender status next season. Not only did GM Daryl Morey sign Paul George to a max contract and re-signed Tyrese Maxey, but he also added capable veterans like Andre Drummond and Eric Gordon while bringing back Kelly Oubre Jr. on a team-friendly deal. On Saturday, the Sixers continued their busy free agency and made another impactful signing.

According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Sixers are finalizing a deal with forward Caleb Martin.

NBA News: Caleb Martin Signs with the 76ers

Martin has been a valuable two-way contributor for the Miami Heat over the past couple of seasons. The 28-year-old signed with the Heat in the 2021 offseason and has been a key rotation piece since then, appearing in 45 playoff games and playing in 24 minutes per game, averaging 9.4 points, four rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game while hitting over 40% of his threes.

With his ability to defend on the perimeter and guard multiple positions while hitting open jumpers and attacking the basket on the other end, Martin projects to be the starter next to Paul George in the other forward spot in the starting lineup. As a player without clear weaknesses, Martin is as solid a playoff performer as any role player.

Not only is Martin an excellent fit in Philadelphia but this signing also has the added benefit of weakening an Eastern Conference contender. The Miami Heat, who have made three conference finals in the last five seasons, have no way to replace Martin in free agency. Losing a key rotation player without being able to sign a replacement when you already have an aging roster will be difficult to overcome for Miami.

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