The Philadelphia 76ers came out of the gates hot, rattling off four straight wins to open the season. But since then, the momentum has cooled.
They've dropped nine of their last 15 games, landing at a 10-9 record just over a month into the campaign. It’s not quite panic time in Philly, but it’s clear this team is still searching for its identity.
That said, there’s been a bright spot emerging from an unexpected place - Dominick Barlow. The 20-year-old big man, signed to a two-way deal, has quietly become one of the most reliable pieces in the Sixers’ rotation. And with the team navigating injuries and inconsistency, Barlow’s steady presence has been a welcome surprise.
Barlow’s Rise: More Than Just a Two-Way Story
Barlow isn’t just surviving out there - he’s making a real impact. He’s started in seven of his 10 appearances so far, and while his numbers (7.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists per game) won’t jump off the page, they don’t tell the full story.
What’s been most impressive is how he’s evolved beyond the role of a simple rim-runner or energy guy. His feel for the game, defensive activity, and willingness to move the ball have made him a seamless fit alongside the Sixers’ high-usage stars.
In a league where versatility and switchability are king, Barlow’s ability to guard multiple positions and contribute without needing plays run for him is exactly the kind of low-maintenance, high-impact skillset that playoff teams covet. He’s playing mature basketball - the kind that earns trust from coaches and front offices alike.
The Contract Dilemma: A Roster Spot Waiting to Be Used
Here’s the catch: Barlow is still on a two-way contract. And as any NBA team knows, there’s a limit to how many games a two-way player can appear in before the team must make a decision - either convert the deal to a standard NBA contract or risk losing the player’s availability down the stretch.
Right now, the Sixers technically have an open roster spot. But historically, Philly’s front office has preferred to keep that extra slot open for flexibility - whether that’s for future trades, buyout season, or emergency depth.
That’s understandable. But at some point, you have to look at what’s happening on the court and reward production.
The Veteran Question: Is It Time to Move On from Eric Gordon?
If the Sixers want to lock in Barlow for the long haul, there’s a clear path forward: waive Eric Gordon.
It’s a tough call, given Gordon’s pedigree as a veteran shooter with playoff experience. But the reality is, he’s become a non-factor in the rotation.
His minutes have dwindled, and when he does see the floor, the impact just isn’t there. Outside of the occasional three-pointer, he’s not offering much - especially on the defensive end, where his age and size have become liabilities.
This isn’t about disrespecting a veteran. It’s about roster construction.
The Sixers are already guard-heavy and undersized in spots. What they need is more frontcourt depth and defensive versatility - precisely what Barlow is bringing.
With Paul George missing time, and both Trendon Watford and Kelly Oubre Jr. dealing with injuries, Philly’s forward rotation is stretched thin. That makes Barlow’s presence even more valuable. He’s not just filling in - he’s helping stabilize the lineup.
The Bottom Line: Barlow Has Earned His Spot
The Sixers are trying to walk the tightrope between competing now and developing talent for the future. In Dominick Barlow, they might have found a player who checks both boxes. He’s young, improving, and already contributing to winning basketball.
It’s time to make it official.
Waiving Eric Gordon and converting Barlow’s deal to a standard NBA contract isn’t just a smart move - it’s the necessary one. The Sixers need to reward production, prioritize roster balance, and lean into the players who are helping them win games.
Barlow has earned that opportunity. Now it’s up to the front office to make the call.