​Let’s imagine a scenario where the Philadelphia 76ers don’t land superstar free agent LeBron James. Even with that outcome, Philadelphia still has one roster spot open and a veteran’s minimum contract available to fill it. So, who should the 76ers target with that final slot? Here are three free agent possibilities for the Sixers to consider, aside from James.
First on the list is Matisse Thybulle. A reunion with Thybulle would be easy to understand because Philadelphia’s fan base genuinely appreciated his contributions during his three and a half seasons with the team. From a basketball perspective, Thybulle offers a critical attribute the Sixers could use, especially for the second unit: defense. The team’s current secondary backcourt starter is a mix of rookie Labaron Philon Jr. and free-agent signing Anfernee Simons. Both players bring offense, but their defensive upside is limited. Bringing in Thybulle as a proven wing defender would provide a substantial upgrade on the bench and help anchor the Sixers’ depth while the unit stabilizes.
During his time with the Portland Trail Blazers last season, Thybulle posted averages of 5.8 points and 2.0 steals per game, along with efficient shooting marks of 43.3% from the floor and 39.8% from three-point range across 30 appearances. His game is defined more by impact on the defensive end and hustle plays than by volume scoring. His primary drawbacks include inconsistent offensive contribution and questions about durability and availability. Still, Thybulle’s defensive instincts, length, and ability to guard multiple positions could translate into meaningful minutes for a team that values switching and pace.
Next is Nicolas Batum, another potential reunion for Philadelphia. Batum is a seasoned 18-year NBA veteran whose experience and high basketball IQ can help stabilize a young roster. He isn’t the player he once was with Portland or Charlotte, but he still brings tangible value: leadership, smart decision-making, and reliable outside shooting. Batum appeared in 74 games for the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2025-2026 season, averaging 4.0 points per game while shooting 40.4% from beyond the arc. He can contribute as a forward who understands how to move without the ball, space the floor, and provide veteran presence in late-game situations. For a Sixers team looking to add depth in the forward rotation, Batum would bring a steadying influence and a credible three-point threat when the offense bogs down.
The third option is Ziaire Williams, who could be the most intriguing target if he’s open to signing a minimum deal. Williams is 24 years old and has shown potential as a two-way contributor over the past two seasons with the Brooklyn Nets. In 56 games, he averaged 10.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 42.5% from the field. Standing at 6-foot-9, Williams has the size and versatility that appeal to modern NBA lineups. However, his rebounding has room for improvement, and he can struggle against stronger, more physical opponents on the glass and defensively. If Williams is willing to take a minimum contract, his upside makes him a compelling long-term bet for a team that values developmental upside and two-way potential.
Of course, each option comes with its own pros and cons. Thybulle offers elite defense and familiarity with the organization, which could yield immediate bench stability and a defensive upgrade. Batum provides veteran leadership, spacing, and versatility, all valuable at the forward position. Williams offers an intriguing upside and positional versatility, albeit with some developmental risk. The optimal choice depends on the Sixers’ strategic priorities: whether they value immediate defense and veteran reliability (Thybulle or Batum) or long-term upside with a reasonable projection (Williams).
In terms of fit, Thybulle aligns well with Philadelphia’s need for a defensive punch off the bench. His presence would help offset lineups that rely on offense-first backcourt combinations and give the second unit a more balanced profile. Batum would bring a veteran voice to the locker room and offer more floor spacing, which could help the starting unit function more efficiently when Thybulle isn’t on the floor. Williams could inject youthful energy and developmental upside, which might be attractive for a team that wants to cultivate a long-term rotational piece.
Regardless of which veteran the Sixers pursue, the aim should be to add a player who can contribute immediately on defense, space the floor, and complement the team’s core players while preserving flexibility for future moves. With one roster spot remaining on a veteran’s minimum contract, Philadelphia has several viable paths to strengthen the depth and overall cohesion of the roster.
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