The Sixers are locking in forward Jabari Walker on a two-year standard deal, rewarding the 23-year-old for carving out a role in Nick Nurse’s rotation after starting the season on a two-way contract.
Walker made headlines earlier this month when he became the first two-way player to hit the 50-game active limit, sidelining him for the four games leading into the All-Star break. But with Philadelphia clearing roster space by trading Jared McCain for a draft pick and sending Eric Gordon out in exchange for the rights to Justinian Jessup, the front office had the flexibility to convert both Walker and Dominick Barlow to full NBA contracts. Barlow inked his two-year deal with a team option back on February 5, and now Walker gets his turn.
It’s a well-earned moment for Walker, who spent his first three seasons with Portland before making the leap to Philly. Since joining the Sixers, he’s brought exactly the kind of defensive energy Nurse loves on the wing-tough, versatile, and willing to do the dirty work.
His shot hasn’t quite come around yet-he’s hitting just 27% from deep this season-but his impact on the floor goes beyond the box score. He’s been a steady presence off the bench, giving the Sixers valuable minutes in a rotation that’s seen its fair share of shuffling.
Walker’s new deal isn’t the only roster move Philly is making. The Sixers are also bringing in veteran point guard Cameron Payne, who will fill the final spot on their 15-man roster.
Between Walker and Payne, the team has now filled out its active roster-but they’ve done so with enough financial breathing room to potentially make another move down the stretch if needed. According to cap analyst Yossi Gozlan, Philadelphia will remain under the luxury tax line even after finalizing both contracts.
Bottom line: the Sixers are tightening up their rotation with a mix of youth and experience. Walker’s development arc is a bright spot in a season full of adjustments, and Payne brings savvy and stability to the backcourt. With the postseason push looming, Philly’s making sure they’ve got the right pieces in place.