Why the Sixers Were Right to Move On from De’Anthony Melton
The Philadelphia 76ers have quietly built a reputation for finding value players who can slot into meaningful roles - and sometimes even outperform expectations. De’Anthony Melton was one of those finds.
Acquired as a defensive-minded guard with a growing offensive game, Melton became a starter and a key piece for nearly two full seasons. But as the Sixers have learned the hard way over the years, availability is often the most valuable skill in the NBA - and Melton just couldn’t stay on the floor.
After a promising first season in Philadelphia, where he missed only four games, Melton’s second year told a different story. He missed 44 games, nearly half the season, and when he did return, his rhythm - especially as a shooter - was completely off. The Sixers, in the middle of a competitive window and with a roster built around Joel Embiid and now Tyrese Maxey, couldn’t afford to gamble on a player whose best ability had become a question mark.
That’s why, when Melton hit free agency in the summer of 2024, the Sixers let him walk. And based on what’s unfolded since, that decision looks more justified by the day.
Post-Philly Struggles
Now with the Golden State Warriors, Melton is still trying to find his footing after a long recovery from an ACL injury that sidelined him for over a year. But the numbers don’t lie - and they’re not pretty.
Through seven games, he’s averaging 6.3 points and two assists in nearly 18 minutes per contest. The shooting splits are especially rough: just 27.1% from the field and a brutal 12.5% from beyond the arc.
For a guard whose value hinges on his ability to stretch the floor and defend at a high level, that’s a tough combo to overcome. And while Steve Kerr is giving him time to work his way back, it’s clear Melton is a long way from being the two-way contributor he once was.
A Necessary Breakup
It’s important to note: Melton wasn’t a bust in Philly. When healthy, he gave the Sixers a defensive jolt in the backcourt and could knock down shots in rhythm. But the injuries piled up, and with a team that’s trying to maximize every dollar and every roster spot, the margin for error is razor-thin.
Had Melton stayed and struggled like this in a Sixers uniform, the frustration from fans and the front office alike would’ve been palpable. This is a franchise that’s already dealt with more than its fair share of injury-related setbacks over the past decade. They simply couldn’t afford another one - especially from a player whose offensive game is so dependent on confidence and consistency.
Looking Ahead
The Sixers have moved on, and frankly, they haven’t missed a beat. With a retooled roster and a clear focus on durability and two-way play, Philly is in a better spot to contend in the East. Letting Melton walk wasn’t just a cap-space move or a cold-hearted business decision - it was a necessary step for a team trying to shed the weight of past missteps and build something sustainable.
Melton, meanwhile, is still working to rediscover his game. There’s always a chance he turns things around - he’s still young, and his defensive instincts haven’t vanished.
But for now, the Sixers made the right call. And based on the early returns, it wasn’t even a close one.