Sixers consider roster cuts to finalize LeBron, Caldwell-Pope deals
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The Philadelphia 76ers must carve out $6.235 million below the first-apron hard cap before they can officially sign LeBron James and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
Sources familiar with the team’s planning say the simplest path is releasing two players. Guard Dalen Terry, whose $2.6 million option was picked up in June, has a non-guaranteed contract until early January. Although he became a popular figure after joining the club in February, his limited offensive production makes him vulnerable.
Forward Jabari Walker, converted from a two-way deal to a standard contract in February, owns a $2.6 million salary for 2026-27 with $250,000 guaranteed. Waiving both Terry and Walker would move Philadelphia roughly $2 million under the cap once James and Caldwell-Pope are added. However, coach Nick Nurse has called Walker the team’s best rebounder and believes he will develop a dependable three-point shot, raising the possibility of a trade that could bring back at least a second-round pick.
The front office could also move on from 2025 second-round pick Johni Broome. The rookie center played just 55 minutes last season but carries a fully guaranteed $2.15 million salary—below the veteran minimum—making him a low-cost target for other clubs. If no deal surfaces, the Sixers could waive and stretch his contract over three years.
In a separate development, guard Jaylen Brown became eligible for a one-year extension worth up to $69 million. Waiting until next summer would make a three-year extension possible. Brown’s existing supermax contract has three seasons remaining at $57.7 million, $61.7 million and $65.6 million.
LeBron James chose Philadelphia because he views the Sixers as his best chance to capture another championship, league insiders said. His decision was not driven by offensive role, potential legacy stops in Miami or Cleveland, or the possibility of teaming with friends in Golden State.
By accepting a $3.8 million veteran minimum deal, James will earn less this season than at least 18 NCAA men’s basketball players expected to surpass that figure through NIL arrangements.
Source: Hoops Rumors
