Just mere hours before the buyout deadline, veteran forward Lonnie Walker IV inked a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, marking a significant move in the NBA trade landscape. Walker, who had a notable tenure with the Brooklyn Nets, found himself facing a limited market during free agency, leading him to sign an Exhibit 10 agreement with the Boston Celtics. However, that deal was short-lived, as he was waived prior to the start of the regular season. With limited options on the table, Walker decided to venture overseas to stay in shape and prepare for his next opportunity in the NBA.
The wait wasn’t long for Walker. Noted NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the former first-round pick had agreed to a two-year contract with the 76ers, with a team option for the 2025-26 season. This news came as quite a surprise, especially considering the call from Philadelphia came just two hours before the deadline to buyout his contract.
Taking to social media, Walker expressed his excitement and gratitude for this new chapter in his career. He acknowledged the close shave with the deadline, stating it was a call he received at 10 pm, merely two hours before his clause ended. The player, who grew up in Reading, just outside of Philadelphia, sees this move as a sort of homecoming. He will be joining fellow local talents, Kyle Lowry and Justin Edwards, on the 76ers’ roster.
Moving forward, Walker is expected to infuse energy and athleticism into the Sixers’ wing position. During his stint with the Nets, he averaged 9.7 points per game, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists, while maintaining a beyond-the-arc shooting percentage of 38.4%.
This move by the 76ers is part of larger series of trade deadline decisions aimed at fortifying the team for the regular season’s home stretch. Most of their signings have been internal, with Walker being the notable exception. His addition to the team is expected to bring fresh dynamics to the Sixers’ game plan, while also adding a touch of local flavor to the ensemble.
