It took an hour into NBA free agency, but someone finally changed teams.
The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly signing centre Andre Drummond to a two-year, $10 million contract according to Shams Charania of the Athletic.
Drummond, 30, spent the 2023-24 season with the Chicago Bulls, averaging 8.4 points and nine rebounds on 55.6 per cent field goal shooting through 79 games.
He is the first free agent of the 2024 offseason to verbally switch teams.
The two-time All-Star and four-time rebounding champ will be relied upon as a veteran backup to Joel Embiid. The former MVP is coming off yet another campaign shortened by injuries, playing in just 39 games last season.
Drummond ought to be a reliable alternative as he’s played less than 60 games just twice throughout his 12-year NBA career. This will also be his second stint with the 76ers after making 49 appearances in the 2021-22 season with the team before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the James Harden deal.
The former ninth-overall pick in 2012 has averaged 12.7 points and 12.4 rebounds throughout his career.
Philadelphia entered the offseason with the second most cap space amongst all 30 teams, according to Spotrac, with just Embiid and three others under contract. Drummond marks the team’s first free agent signing thus far.
The Philadelphia 76ers have made a significant move in the offseason by signing veteran center Andre Drummond to a two-year, $10 million contract. This signing adds depth to the team’s frontcourt and provides insurance for star center Joel Embiid, who has had injury concerns in the past.
Drummond, a two-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Sixers. Standing at 6’10” and weighing 279 pounds, he is known for his rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability. In the 2020-2021 season, Drummond averaged 14.9 points, 12 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game while playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers.
The addition of Drummond gives the Sixers a formidable frontcourt rotation, with Embiid as the starting center and Drummond coming off the bench. This will allow the team to maintain a strong defensive presence in the paint at all times and give Embiid valuable rest during games.
Furthermore, Drummond’s signing provides insurance for Embiid in case of injury or fatigue. With Drummond on the roster, the Sixers can afford to rest Embiid more frequently without sacrificing too much on the defensive end. This will be crucial as the team looks to make a deep playoff run next season.
Overall, the signing of Andre Drummond is a smart move by the Philadelphia 76ers. It bolsters their frontcourt depth, provides insurance for Joel Embiid, and adds a proven veteran presence to the team. With Drummond in the mix, the Sixers are poised to be a strong contender in the Eastern Conference next season.