The Philadelphia 76ers are scrambling to stay in the playoff mix, and their latest move brings in some much-needed help. The team has signed veteran guard Lonnie Walker IV to a two-year, $3.7 million deal, adding a scoring punch to a roster that could use the boost. Walker, a former first-round pick, has bounced around the league but has shown he can contribute, particularly with his perimeter shooting—something Philly desperately needs right now.
Philadelphia 76ers Add Lonnie Walker IV to Strengthen Backcourt Depth
Lonnie Walker IV, 26, was selected 18th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs. Since then, he’s suited up for the
Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets before playing overseas this season with Zalgiris Kaunas in the EuroLeague. His deal overseas included an NBA-out clause, allowing him to jump back into the league when an opportunity presented itself.
Last season, Walker played 58 games for the Nets, averaging 9.7 points per game while shooting 38.4% from three-point range. His ability to stretch the floor and provide secondary scoring makes him a valuable addition for a struggling Philadelphia squad.
Philly is in a tough spot. They’ve lost five straight games and seven of their last eight, slipping to 11th place in the Eastern Conference, tied with Brooklyn. They’re 1.5 games behind the Chicago Bulls for the final play-in spot, and with their offense ranked 22nd in the league and injuries piling up, they need all the help they can get.
Walker has had his moments, most memorably in the 2023 NBA Playoffs when he dropped 15 points in the fourth quarter of the Lakers’ Game 4 win over the Golden State Warriors. He’s never fully lived up to his first-round draft status, but he’s had multiple seasons averaging double-digit points and could prove valuable in the right situation.
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76ers desperately trying to stay in the race for a postseason spot, Walker’s scoring and shooting could be a real asset. If he finds a steady role alongside
Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, he might end up being more than just a depth piece. The Sixers host the Boston Celtics next, and they’ll be hoping Walker can make an immediate impact.