Could Saddiq Bey Be the Wing Answer the Sixers Need?
With the trade deadline fast approaching and Paul George sidelined for 25 games, the Sixers are staring down a familiar problem: a lack of true wings. Outside of George, only Kelly Oubre Jr. and rookie Justin Edwards are natural fits at the position on standard contracts. Nick Nurse has tried to get creative - mixing in three-guard lineups and going bigger at times - but the need for a reliable, versatile wing has only grown more urgent.
Enter Saddiq Bey.
The former Villanova standout made quite the statement Saturday night, torching the Sixers for 34 points in the Pelicans’ 124-114 loss. He added six rebounds and three assists, looking every bit like the best player on the floor for New Orleans. And while the Sixers walked away with the win, Bey’s performance may have left a lasting impression on the front office.
A Homegrown Talent with a Lot to Offer
Bey’s basketball roots run deep in Philly. He blossomed at Villanova, where he became a household name during his sophomore season under Jay Wright, ultimately earning the Julius Erving Award as the nation’s top small forward. That breakout year launched him into the 2020 NBA Draft, where he was selected 19th overall by the Pistons.
His early NBA years were a mixed bag. Playing for a rebuilding Detroit squad, Bey struggled with efficiency, shooting under 40% from the field in each of his first two seasons. But context matters - the Pistons weren’t exactly an ideal environment for a young player trying to find his rhythm.
Things began to turn after a midseason trade to Atlanta during the 2022-23 campaign. In a more defined role off the bench, Bey averaged 11.6 points and shot over 40% from three to close out the season. The momentum didn’t last long, though - he battled inconsistency in 2023-24 and then suffered a torn ACL late in the year, costing him the entire 2024-25 season.
Despite the setback, Bey landed a three-year deal with the Wizards. But before he could suit up in D.C., he was rerouted to New Orleans in the Jordan Poole trade. Now, with the Pelicans, he’s finding his footing again - and potentially playing his way into a new opportunity back in Philadelphia.
What Bey Brings to the Table
At 6-foot-8 with a near 7-foot wingspan and a solid 215-pound frame, Bey checks a lot of boxes physically. He’s capable of playing both forward spots, and that positional flexibility is exactly what the Sixers need right now. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Bey has the tools to contribute in a variety of ways.
His shooting has been up and down throughout his NBA career, but some of that inconsistency can be traced back to the offensive systems he’s been in. This season, he’s hitting 34.8% from deep on 5.2 attempts per game - a respectable clip.
More encouraging? Since returning from injury, he’s shooting 44.4% from three over his last 10 games.
That’s not just a hot streak - it’s a sign that he’s regaining confidence and rhythm.
Bey’s offensive game goes beyond spot-up shooting. He’s averaging 16.5 points in 30.2 minutes per game, showing an ability to create his own shot when needed.
He’s comfortable with the ball in his hands, can score off the dribble, and has a knack for cutting into space when playing off-ball. He’s also been a smart decision-maker this season, averaging 2.4 assists to just 0.7 turnovers per game - a solid ratio for a wing.
Defensively, he’s not going to lock down opposing stars one-on-one, but he’s a reliable team defender. He uses his size well, rebounds at a high rate for his position (5.9 per game), and brings a level of athleticism that fits well with the Sixers’ youth movement this season.
Pelicans head coach James Borrego had nothing but praise for Bey ahead of Saturday’s game, calling him “a pro on both sides of the ball” and highlighting his versatility, toughness, and ability to make plays when the offense stalls. That kind of trust from a coach says a lot - Bey’s become a steadying presence in New Orleans, and he’s doing it while still shaking off the rust from a major injury.
What Would It Take to Get Him?
Bey’s contract situation makes him an even more appealing target. He’s signed through next season at just $6.1 million - a very manageable number for a team like the Sixers looking to add talent without compromising future flexibility.
But that affordability, combined with his recent production, means he won’t come cheap. A couple of second-round picks probably won’t get it done.
It might take a first-rounder - though likely not the unprotected 2028 first from the Clippers. New Orleans could also ask for a young player like Jared McCain, though that opens up a different conversation about roster balance, especially with Jeremiah Fears already in the fold.
Still, Bey looks like the kind of player who could fit seamlessly alongside Joel Embiid and the Sixers’ core. He brings size, scoring, and versatility - all things this team could use more of right now. And with George out for an extended stretch, the need is clear.
Daryl Morey has never been shy about making bold moves at the deadline. If the Sixers are serious about contending this season - and keeping Embiid happy - a deal for someone like Saddiq Bey might be exactly what they need to stay in the hunt.